Broke a 28-Year Curse and Bids Farewell: Successful Scotland Coach Resigns After World Cup Exit

Scotland finished third in Group C with three points, still clinging to a slim hope of advancing to the Round of 16. However, with a goal difference of -3, this was largely a theoretical possibility, which was definitively quashed by Croatia's 2-1 victory over Ghana. Thus, Scotland's streak of never progressing beyond the group stage at a World Cup or European Championship continues.

Clarke managed Scotland for seven years, leading the 'Tartan Army' to the World Cup after a 28-year absence. The Scots began their campaign with a 1-0 win over Caribbean minnows Haiti, but subsequent 0-1 losses to Morocco and 0-3 to Brazil relegated them to third place in the group.

"Head coach Steve Clarke has stepped down from his position. Our most successful national team manager has concluded his seven-year tenure following our participation in the World Cup," the Scottish Football Association announced on social media.