Scotland conclude World Cup preparations with big win over Bolivia

DPASat, June 6, 2026 at 10:10 PM UTC·1 min read

Scotland will make their long-awaited return to the World Cup in confident mood following a convincing 4-0 friendly win over Bolivia in New Jersey on Saturday.

In a far from packed Sports Illustrated stadium in hot and humid conditions, Lawrence Shankland struck with a fine header in the fifth minute, then set up midfielder Scott McTominay for a well-worked second in the 20th minute before Che Adams added two more before the break.

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Unsurprisingly, boss Steve Clarke made numerous second-half substitutions but Scotland remained in control and on top of a 4-1 win over Curacao at Hampden last weekend, his side have hit the goal trail in time for their opener against Haiti next Saturday in Foxborough – Scotland’s first game in the World Cup since 1998.

There should be some caution attached to the optimism as the South Americans demonstrated why they are FIFA-ranked 76 to Scotland’s 43, but nevertheless the Tartan Army are entitled to enjoy added positivity as they look forward to seeing their side back on the big stage.

Bolivia are not at the World Cup.