McTominay should be fit for Scotland's World Cup opener

McTominay expected fit despite stomach bug scare

Scott McTominay missed Scotland's final training session with a stomach bug but is expected to be available for Saturday's World Cup opener against Haiti (1). The Napoli midfielder travelled separately with a doctor as a precaution, though manager Steve Clarke is confident he'll recover in time (3). Kenny McLean, speaking to media, said: "Hopefully that doesn't spread" (1). Losing McTominay, your most influential midfielder, for the first World Cup match in 28 years would be a cruel blow, but the signs are positive.

The wait is almost over

Scotland face Haiti in Charlotte on Saturday in the opening match of Group C. It's your first World Cup game since 1998, and the squad is in genuinely good shape. Two confident friendly wins, eight goals scored, and Lawrence Shankland has talked about a "club feel" within the camp. John McGinn, now affectionately known as 'Meatball', has been a driving force in midfield, with his rise from St Mirren to World Cup starter a story worth telling (2). Haiti's threat comes through Duckens Nazon and Frantzdy Pierrot, but Scotland go in with a settled system and quiet belief.

Haiti hit with kit ruling

Haiti have been forced into a kit change for Saturday's match after FIFA stepped in with a political decision. They cannot wear their usual colours against Scotland (5). A minor distraction for the opposition, but one less thing to worry about on matchday.

Fan reactions

The mood among Scotland fans is a mix of nerves and genuine excitement. The McTominay news has been met with relief rather than panic, most seem convinced he'll be fine. The bigger conversation is about what it feels like to finally be back at a World Cup after 28 years. Plenty are sharing memories of '98 and admitting they never thought they'd see this day again. Join the discussion on Reddit