Brazil-Scotland match at risk of suspension due to lightning

Brazil's crucial World Cup Group C match against Scotland at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium on Thursday morning 4.00 am (Bangladesh time), faces the possibility of a long delay or even suspension due to a forecast of severe thunderstorms during the game.

The match is scheduled to start at 6:00 pm local time on Wednesday, June 24, but weather forecasts predict intense storms and rain at the same time, raising the possibility of significant disruption.

According to a report by The Sun, the match could be suspended if lightning is detected near the Hard Rock Stadium. FIFA rules state that if lightning is detected within eight miles of the stadium during play, the match must be stopped immediately. Play can only resume at least 15 minutes after the last lightning strike.

A similar weather incident occurred earlier in the tournament, when the France-Iraq match in Philadelphia was delayed for nearly two hours due to a severe thunderstorm. During that time, stadium sirens were sounded, spectators were instructed to seek safe shelter, and players returned to the dressing rooms. After the long break, players had to warm up again before the match could restart.

Scotland coach Steve Clarke said his team has a 'Plan B' ready to deal with any weather-related disruption. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, he said, "You must have seen the France-Iraq match. That match was delayed for a long time due to the weather, and it was the first such incident in this tournament. So far we have been somewhat lucky with the weather."

The Scottish coach added, "We have a tactical plan ready to deal with such unexpected situations. Whatever the conditions on the pitch, the team is fully prepared. If there is an unexpected delay due to weather, we will manage that as well."

Scotland need at least one point from the match to secure a knockout berth. However, even if they lose to Brazil, they will not be completely eliminated, as their fate will depend on other results. Brazil, on the other hand, are expected to welcome back star forward Neymar from injury, which has added to the excitement. Scotland, however, will be without defender Aaron Hickey for this crucial match.