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

Scotland returns to the World Cup stage after nearly three decades, reuniting with Brazil and Morocco—two of their group opponents from 1998. Haiti joins them, making only their second World Cup appearance and first since 1974. Scotland's opening match against Haiti in Foxborough could be pivotal for their ambitions of advancing beyond the group stage for the first time in a major tournament.

This group stands out as the only one featuring two top-10 ranked teams: five-time champions Brazil and African powerhouse Morocco, who reached the semi-finals four years ago. The clash promises intense competition.

Group C Fixtures (BST)

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

Brazil

Their last World Cup triumph was back in 2002. Since then, Brazil’s path to reclaiming the trophy has been elusive. If they fail this summer, it would mark their longest drought without a title since their first star in 1958. For the first time, a foreign coach leads them: Carlo Ancelotti, a decorated European manager with five Champions League titles. His presence adds an intriguing layer to Brazil’s campaign.

One surprise is Neymar’s recall. The 34-year-old, Brazil’s all-time top scorer, hasn’t played internationally since October 2023 due to fitness struggles. His inclusion raises questions about the team’s depth, especially in midfield and defense. Neymar may even miss the opener due to injury concerns.

Brazil Squad Highlights

• Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Ederson (Fenerbahce)
• Defenders: Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal)
• Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle), Casemiro (Manchester United), Lucas Paqueta (Flamengo)
• Forwards: Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid), Neymar (Santos), Raphinha (Barcelona)

Star Player: Vinicius Jr. With his dynamic dribbling and knack for crucial goals, he represents Brazil’s next generation, especially given his strong bond with Ancelotti.

Breakout Talent: Rayan, a 19-year-old winger excelling at Bournemouth, has quickly adapted to the Premier League and adds fresh energy.

Fifa Ranking: 6

Odds to Win: 10/1

Morocco

The Atlas Lions made history by becoming the first African side to reach the World Cup semi-finals in 2022. Their preparation for 2026 has seen turmoil, especially after coach Walid Regragui left three months before the tournament, citing the need for new energy. The controversial Africa Cup of Nations final, where Senegal was stripped of the title after a walk-off, overshadowed Morocco’s journey.

Morocco's strength lies in their defensive resilience, which troubled top teams in Qatar. Their performance in the upcoming tournament could once again frustrate opponents.

Morocco Squad Highlights

• Goalkeepers: Yassine Bounou (Al-Hilal)
• Defenders: Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain), Noussair Mazraoui (Manchester United)
• Midfielders: Sofyan Amrabat (Real Betis), Azzedine Ounahi (Girona)
• Forwards: Brahim Diaz (Real Madrid), Ayoub El Kaabi (Olympiacos)

Star Player: Brahim Diaz, despite missing a decisive Panenka penalty at Afcon, finished as Morocco’s top scorer with five goals. Redemption is on his mind.

Breakout Talent: Ayoub El Kaabi, known for spectacular overhead kicks, might showcase his acrobatics on soccer’s biggest stage.

Fifa Ranking: 8

Odds to Win: 50/1

Scotland

Their qualification night was unforgettable, with stunning goals from Scott McTominay, Kieran Tierney, and Kenny McLean securing a 4-2 victory over Denmark. Yet, the challenge now is tougher. Coach Steve Clarke has guided Scotland to their third major tournament in six years, but their record in these events remains winless.

With the expanded 48-team format, even a single victory might suffice to progress. The opening match against Haiti offers the best chance, with daunting games against Morocco and Brazil to follow.

Scotland’s squad boasts experienced players like McTominay and John McGinn, who inspire both club and country. Concerns linger about the absence of a proven goal scorer and limited speed on the wings. Goalkeeping depth also raises questions, with veteran Craig Gordon possibly becoming the second-oldest World Cup participant at 43.

Scotland Squad Highlights

• Goalkeepers: Craig Gordon (Hearts), Angus Gunn (Nottingham Forest)
• Defenders: Andy Robertson (Liverpool), Kieran Tierney (Celtic)
• Midfielders: Scott McTominay (Napoli), John McGinn (Aston Villa)
• Forwards: Che Adams (Torino), Lyndon Dykes (Charlton)

Star Player: Scott McTominay. His rise at Napoli and crucial moments, including that memorable overhead kick, offer hope Scotland can find decisive contributions.

Breakout Talent: Ben Gannon Doak, whose pace and skill on the wing helped during qualifying, though recent injuries might affect his impact.

Fifa Ranking: 43

Odds to Win: 250/1

Haiti

Haiti qualified for the first time in 52 years despite never playing a home qualifier due to severe unrest in Port-au-Prince. Their French coach, Sebastien Migne, has never visited the country because of ongoing security issues.

The team played home matches in Curacao and managed to secure qualification by beating Nicaragua 2-0 in their final game. Almost all squad members play abroad. Haitian fans face travel bans to the U.S., but a passionate diaspora will likely provide vocal support.

Haiti Squad Highlights

• Goalkeepers: Johnny Placide (Bastia)
• Defenders: Carlens Arcus (Angers), Duke Lacroix (Colorado Springs)
• Midfielders: Leverton Pierre (Vizela), Jean-Ricner Bellegarde (Wolves)
• Forwards: Duckens Nazon (Esteghlal), Wilson Isidor (Sunderland)

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

Breakout Talent: Wilson Isidor, who recently switched allegiance and impressed at Sunderland.

Fifa Ranking: 83

Odds to Win: 5000/1

Group C Outlook

We think Scotland will finish third behind Brazil and Morocco, likely earning three points by defeating Haiti. Whether that points tally secures advancement remains uncertain. Narrow losses to either Brazil or Morocco might prove key in the race to qualify.