McTominay's subdued World Cup: Is the Scotland star underperforming?

Scotland's return to the World Cup after 28 years has been marked by a narrow win over Haiti and a narrow loss to Morocco. While the team has shown resilience, one of its key players, Scott McTominay, has been unusually subdued. The Napoli midfielder, who lit up the qualifying campaign with a spectacular bicycle kick against Denmark, has yet to replicate that impact on the biggest stage.

McTominay's World Cup performance so far

In Scotland's opening match against Haiti, McTominay came within a post of scoring a stunning goal. Despite that near miss, BBC Sport audience ratings placed three Scotland players ahead of him. Against Morocco, his rating of 5.09 saw seven teammates ranked higher. However, a closer look at the numbers tells a different story.

Passing and work rate

Against Haiti, McTominay recorded a 93% pass completion rate, the second-highest in the starting XI. Against Morocco, his 89% completion was the third-highest in the team. He managed two shots on goal in both games—one more than he had against Denmark in November, when he was hailed as a hero. His work rate was also impressive: he covered over 12 kilometers against Haiti, the most of any player on the pitch, and was only 369 meters behind Lewis Ferguson against Morocco.

Context behind the subdued performances

McTominay played against Haiti despite an upset stomach that had worried the Scotland camp. While he did not dominate the game, Scotland still secured a 1-0 win. Against Morocco, the team was rocked by a fast start from the Africa Cup of Nations winners, but they grew into the game from just before half-time onward, even if clear chances were limited.

Former Scotland winger Pat Nevin noted that McTominay's style differs from that of Billy Gilmour, highlighting his unique attributes. McTominay's biggest strengths lie in forward areas—his eye for goal, positioning, and power. However, when Scotland is on the back foot, his influence wanes. Against Haiti, Scotland received the ball 77 times in the final third compared to 116 for Haiti, indicating a lack of attacking initiative.

Can McTominay shine against Brazil?

As Scotland prepares to face Brazil, the question is whether McTominay can rediscover his game-changing form. His second-half performance against Morocco was arguably Scotland's most promising showing in the tournament, and his involvement grew as the team pushed forward. With his ability to arrive in the box and score crucial goals—like his winner against Israel in 2021 and his brace against Spain at Hampden Park—McTominay remains a key weapon for Scotland.

Across 72 caps, McTominay has 15 goals and two assists, but those numbers understate his impact. He has been the man for big occasions, and the Tartan Army will hope he can deliver again when Scotland faces Brazil in Miami.