Can you name Scotland's XI from that famous Brazil clash in '98?

The Tartan Army is feeling a wave of deja vu as Scotland prepare to face the mighty Selecao once again. But before we look ahead, let's take a trip down memory lane to one of the most iconic fixtures in Scottish football history: the opening match of the 1998 World Cup against Brazil.

A famous fixture

It was a scorching June afternoon in Saint-Denis when Scotland walked out at the Stade de France to take on the reigning world champions. Brazil, boasting Ronaldo, Rivaldo, and Roberto Carlos, were overwhelming favorites. But the Scots, led by Craig Brown, had a point to prove. The atmosphere was electric, with the Tartan Army in full voice, out-singing the Brazilian fans. The match itself was a thriller: John Collins converted a penalty to equalize after César Sampaio had headed Brazil ahead, but Tom Boyd's own goal ultimately sealed a 2-1 win for the South Americans.

The battle in the group

That 1998 World Cup group stage was a brutal one for Scotland. Alongside Brazil, they faced Norway and Morocco. Despite a valiant effort, Scotland finished bottom of the group with just one point from a draw against Norway. The Brazil match, however, remains a cherished memory—a moment when the underdogs went toe-to-toe with the best in the world. The lineup from that day is etched in the minds of fans: Colin Hendry, Paul Lambert, Christian Dailly, and Jim Leighton all featured. But can you remember the full XI?

Why it still matters

Fast forward to today, and Scotland are once again set to face Brazil in a friendly. But the 1998 clash represents more than just nostalgia—it's a benchmark. For a generation of Scottish fans, that match symbolized the nation's fighting spirit on the biggest stage. The quiz circulating now isn't just a test of memory; it's a celebration of a team that dared to dream. As the Tartan Army gears up for the next chapter, remembering those heroes reminds us why football is the beautiful game.

What it means: This quiz taps into the enduring legacy of that 1998 showdown. It's a reminder of Scotland's rich World Cup history and a chance for fans to reconnect with a moment of pride. As the national team continues its journey, the spirit of that brave XI lives on.