Ahead of the competition, manager Steve Clarke used a 4-4-2 setup during exhibition matches with Curacao and Bolivia, achieving strong results.

Facing weaker teams, Scotland netted eight times in those fixtures and appeared assured heading into the World Cup.

Clarke retained the formation for the opening match versus Haiti, yet Scotland recorded fewer attempts than their rivals along with a reduced expected goals figure (1.05 compared to 1.21).

John McGinn's decisive strike benefited from a deflection, while forwards Lawrence Shankland and Che Adams remained on the edges of play.

Shankland moved to the substitutes' bench for the Morocco encounter as Clarke strengthened midfield options, but Adams again struggled to influence proceedings.

Frequently left alone in attack, he could not retain possession or advance play, recording only 11 touches before Lyndon Dykes replaced him after 71 minutes. Scotland ended with no shots on target.

Clarke is expected to retain the system for the Brazil fixture, though changes up front may occur as Dykes, Shankland, Ross Stewart and George Hirst vie with Adams for the striking role.

Winger Ben Gannon-Doak impressed versus Haiti and added vital energy from the bench, helping the team finish positively against Morocco.

Another attacker, Findlay Curtis aged 19, entered late against Haiti for his tournament debut and brings speed along with skill. He may see action midweek to ease pressure on the side.

Despite limited clear chances in the opening two matches, Scotland have maintained a strong defensive record overall.

A single error against Morocco allowed Ismael Saibari to beat Grant Hanley and score after just 70 seconds.

From that moment, the back four restricted a strong opponent to few quality openings.

Jack Hendry performed excellently, clearing threats repeatedly through speed and anticipation. His intervention to stop Saibari scoring again stood out.

"A poor beginning, yet the response proved effective," Clarke noted post-match. "We needed to settle for five or 10 minutes to find our rhythm.

"This group has demonstrated such determination repeatedly in recent years."

Such resolve will prove useful in the final group match, where another disciplined defensive showing will be essential.