Steve Clarke steps down as Scotland boss after World Cup fate sealed | Football | Sport
Steve Clarke has stepped down from his position as Scotland manager after the Tartan Army’s World Cup campaign came to a disappointing end. They had slim hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages as one of the best third-placed nations in the competition, but a 3-0 defeat to Brazil in their final group stage game made a huge dent in their goal difference.
Results have gone against Scotland, who were at their first World Cup in 28-years, having won their opener against Haiti. However, defeats to Morocco and Brazil consigned Scotland to third place in the group and elimination from the tournament.
In a statement shared by the Scottish FA, Clarke said: “The most emotional part of this goodbye is for my players, without whom we wouldn’t have had any of the memories that we’ve accumulated from 2019 until now.
“They deserve all the praise and adulation that they receive and it was truly an honour to be called their Gaffer. Thanks for having me and good luck to my successor.”
Ian Maxwell, Scottish FA chief executive said: “While we are all disappointed to have exited the World Cup at the group stage, we must not lose sight of the undeniable progress made during Steve’s seven years in charge.
“From starting as a pot four team in 2019 to topping our World Cup qualifying group, he has more than delivered on the remit to take Scotland back to a major tournament.
“We thank Steve for his record-breaking contribution and know that when the disappointment of World Cup elimination subsides, the Scotland supporters will be thankful for the memories of marching with pride at major tournaments once again.
“Finally, on behalf of the board of the Scottish FA I would like to make special mention to our incredible supporters.
“The many thousands who have travelled to the United States to celebrate the return to a World Cup – making a significant financial commitment to do so – have once again shown themselves to be exceptional ambassadors for our country and our national game.”
Scotland’s hopes of progressing at the 2026 World Cup were finally dashed on Saturday night when Croatia defeated Ghana 2-1 in Philadelphia. Clarke’s men managed just three points from nine in Group C, with a goal difference of minus three, but as expected, it wasn’t enough to earn a spot among the eight best third-placed sides who advance to the last 32 of the competition.
Having been thrashed 3-0 by Brazil, the Scots required a string of results to fall in their favour – which simply didn’t materialise.
By Saturday, Scotland needed favourable outcomes across three group matches, the first of which hinged on Group L, where Ghana were required to beat Croatia by a margin of at least three goals. Croatia ran out 2-1 winners to seal Scotland’s fate.
