It began with Pele and Jairzinho, Gerson and Amarildo the Brazilian stars of 1966, reigning world champions for a little while longer when Scotland first crossed paths with the Selecao.
That meeting, nearly 61 years and 10 encounters ago, produced a memorable start. Future Lisbon Lion Stevie Chalmers struck after just a minute, and Scotland earned a 1-1 draw against one of football's great powers.
Steve Clarke would gladly accept a repeat outcome on Wednesday in the sweltering Miami heat, where Scotland face what could be the most significant match in their modern history.
Brazil have often been the source of Scottish heartbreak.
There was the anguish of Paris in 1998, when Tom Boyd's unfortunate own goal proved decisive in a 2-1 defeat. There was the agony of Frankfurt in 1974, when Billy Bremner's missed chance in a goalless draw contributed to Scotland's elimination on goal difference despite remaining unbeaten.
Now, more than half a century later, goal difference once again hangs over Scotland's World Cup fate.
The equation is simple yet complex. Scotland do not necessarily need a victory and may not even require a draw to reach the knockout stages for the first time in their history.
A point or three would remove much of the uncertainty, but even a narrow defeat could prove enough. Whether it's a spirited 1-0 loss, a hard-fought 2-0 setback, or a chaotic contest with goals at both ends, Scotland's destiny may still be alive when the final whistle blows.
For Clarke's side, the challenge is immense. The opportunity is even greater. History beckons.
