Scotland's Clarke: A Renewed Leader Ready to End World Cup Drought

Steve Clarke believes he is a changed manager as he prepares to lead Scotland into their first men's World Cup in nearly three decades. The 62-year-old, who has guided the team to three consecutive major tournaments, admits he did not fully enjoy the previous two due to reduced crowds and disappointing performances. Reflecting on Euro 2020, he noted that playing group games at Hampden and Wembley lacked a tournament feel, while at Euro 2024, he felt the team underperformed and he made poor decisions. With a squad now rich in tournament experience, Clarke is determined to "break the glass ceiling" by advancing past the group stage for the first time. Scotland kicks off their 2026 campaign against Haiti on Sunday, ending a 28-year absence from football's biggest stage. The mood around the team has lifted after a new four-year contract for Clarke and a positive pre-tournament build-up, despite recent friendly defeats.