Scotland are on the verge of making history, with Steve Clarke set to name the first men’s XI to feature at a World Cup in 28 years.
The head coach must decide whether to stick with the same 4-4-2 system that delivered back-to-back four-goal wins in warm-up fixtures against Curacao and Bolivia.
Getting off to a positive start in Boston is widely seen as essential, making the formation decision one of the most significant Clarke has faced in his tenure.
Lawrence Shankland and Che Adams impressed in tandem during Saturday’s display and are widely expected to lead the line once again against Haiti.
Former Scotland striker Kenny Miller says he would be “very surprised” if the duo do not spearhead a 4-4-2 for the Group C opener.
“Clarke has played that formation for these two preparation games,” Miller said, adding that “it makes sense and he’s looked at a couple of different combinations within that.”
Miller pointed to Saturday’s performance as particularly convincing, noting that “the fact they were both on the scoresheet means I would be very surprised if it wasn’t those two.”
Captain Andy Robertson and Aaron Hickey are expected to fill the full-back positions, with Ben Gannon-Doak, Scott McTominay, and Shankland all also anticipated to start.
McTominay’s involvement remains subject to a fitness check, with tummy trouble reported as a concern ahead of the Sunday fixture in Boston.
Ryan Christie and Lewis Ferguson are likely competing for the final midfield spot, particularly if Aston Villa captain John McGinn returns to the starting line-up.
Goalkeeper Angus Gunn is expected to retain his place after playing the full 90 minutes against Bolivia, though the centre-back selection remains far less clear-cut.
Scott McKenna, John Souttar, Grant Hanley and Jack Hendry all received minutes across the two friendlies, leaving Clarke with decisions still to make in his defensive unit.
Scotland know that three points and a reasonable goal difference could potentially be enough to secure progression to the knockout stages from their group.
Haiti qualified for the tournament and have demonstrated real quality, including a 4-0 dismantling of New Zealand during their own World Cup preparations.
Scotland have historically struggled when expectation runs high against lower-ranked opposition, but recent form and improved performances have helped restock confidence within the Tartan Army.
The fanbase will demand a front-footed approach after the tentative showings that drew criticism during what was ultimately a successful qualifying campaign.
