World Cup 2026 Group C Preview: Scotland's Return Rekindles Memories of Brazil and Morocco, But Can They Seize the Haiti Chance?

After 28 years, Scotland returns to the World Cup stage, reuniting with familiar foes Brazil and Morocco. Joining them is Haiti, making just their second World Cup appearance since 1974. Scotland’s opening match against Haiti in Foxborough could set the tone for their hopes of progressing beyond the group, a feat yet to be achieved at major tournaments.

This group stands out as the only one featuring two top-10 FIFA-ranked teams: Brazil, five-time champions, and Morocco, African champions and last tournament’s semi-finalists. The fixtures promise intense battles.

Group C Fixtures (BST)

• 13 June, 11pm: Brazil 1-1 Morocco, MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
• 14 June, 2am: Haiti 0-1 Scotland, Gillette Stadium, Foxborough
• 19 June, 11pm: Scotland v Morocco, Gillette Stadium, Foxborough
• 20 June, 1:30am: Brazil v Haiti, Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
• 24 June, 11pm: Scotland v Brazil, Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens
• 24 June, 11pm: Morocco v Haiti, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta

Brazil

Since their last World Cup win in 2002, Brazil has struggled to reclaim glory. Their current 24-year title drought matches a previous long gap between 1970 and 1994. This summer, they face unfamiliar territory if they fail to lift the trophy again.

Carlo Ancelotti leads the team as Brazil's first foreign manager. Known for his Champions League successes, Ancelotti brings a new dynamic. Neymar’s shock recall after almost three years out adds intrigue; at 34, he remains the nation’s top scorer but questions about form and fitness linger.

There’s debate whether Brazil has enough depth in midfield and defense to contend seriously or if flair will outweigh substance once more.

Brazil Squad Highlights

• Goalkeepers: Alisson, Ederson, Weverton
• Defenders: Marquinhos, Bremer, Gabriel Magalhaes
• Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes, Casemiro, Fabinho
• Forwards: Vinicius Jr, Neymar, Raphinha

Star player: Vinicius Jr, whose peak performances under Ancelotti at Real Madrid showcase his skillful dribbling and clutch finishing.

Breakout talent: Rayan, a powerful left-footed winger impressing at Bournemouth soon after his January move from Vasco de Gama.

FIFA ranking: 6Odds to win: 10/1

Morocco

The Atlas Lions stunned the world by reaching the 2022 World Cup semi-finals, marking a historic achievement for Africa. Yet their road to 2026 has been turbulent. Coach Walid Regragui left months before the tournament, citing the need for fresh energy amid controversy from the Africa Cup of Nations final where Senegal was stripped of the title.

Morocco's success relied heavily on strong defense rather than attacking flair. Their cautious style may make them tough opponents again.

Morocco Squad Highlights

• Goalkeepers: Yassine Bounou, Munir El Kajoui
• Defenders: Achraf Hakimi, Noussair Mazraoui, Nayef Aguerd
• Midfielders: Sofyan Amrabat, Azzedine Ounahi
• Forwards: Brahim Diaz, Ayoub El Kaabi

Star player: Brahim Diaz, who led scoring in AFCON but missed a crucial penalty, now seeks redemption.

Breakout talent: Ayoub El Kaabi, famed for spectacular overhead kicks and acrobatic goals.

FIFA ranking: 8Odds to win: 50/1

Scotland

Scotland’s return after nearly three decades ended memorably with stunning goals from Scott McTominay, Kieran Tierney, and Kenny McLean to beat Denmark 4-2 in qualification. Despite this, major tournaments have been disappointing under Steve Clarke with no wins in six games.

The expanded 48-team format means a single victory might suffice to progress, putting emphasis on their opener against Haiti. Facing Brazil and Morocco later will be daunting.

Experience counts with leaders like McTominay and John McGinn, though concerns remain over lack of a clinical striker, limited pace on the wings, and goalkeeper experience.

Scotland Squad Highlights

• Goalkeepers: Craig Gordon, Angus Gunn
• Defenders: Andy Robertson, Kieran Tierney, Nathan Patterson
• Midfielders: Scott McTominay, John McGinn, Ryan Christie
• Forwards: Che Adams, Lyndon Dykes

Star player: Scott McTominay, who has flourished at Napoli and can deliver crucial moments inside the box.

Breakout talent: Ben Gannon Doak, a winger who brings much-needed pace but has battled injury recently.

FIFA ranking: 43Odds to win: 250/1

Haiti

Haiti defied odds by qualifying despite never playing at home due to ongoing crises. Their coach, Sebastien Migne, has not even visited the country because of security issues in Port-au-Prince. Forced to play home qualifiers abroad, they secured their spot with a win over Nicaragua.

Most players compete internationally, and fans cannot attend matches in the US, but a large diaspora hopes to provide vocal support.

Haiti Squad Highlights

• Goalkeepers: Johnny Placide, Alexandre Pierre
• Defenders: Carlens Arcus, Jean-Kevin Duverne
• Midfielders: Leverton Pierre, Jean-Ricner Bellegarde
• Forwards: Duckens Nazon, Wilson Isidor

Star player: Duckens Nazon, captain and top scorer in qualifying with six goals.

Breakout talent: Wilson Isidor, recently impressive for Sunderland and new to Haiti’s team.

FIFA ranking: 83Odds to win: 5000/1

Group C Outlook

We think Brazil and Morocco will finish top two, with Scotland likely third after beating Haiti. Whether three points will be enough for Scotland depends on results against the stronger sides, where even a narrow loss might help.