NorthStandCA logo

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

Group C Overview

After 28 years, Scotland is back on football's biggest stage, reuniting with familiar foes Brazil and Morocco, echoing their group from the 1998 World Cup. Joining them this time is Haiti, making only their second appearance since 1974. The opening match for Scotland against Haiti in Foxborough may be pivotal for Steve Clarke’s squad, who hope to become the first Scottish team to progress past a major tournament group stage.

This expanded World Cup features 48 teams, but Group C stands out with two top-10 FIFA-ranked nations: Brazil, the five-time champions, and Morocco, the surprising African semi-finalists from 2022. The stage is set for a compelling competition.

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 vs Morocco, Gillette Stadium, Foxborough
  • 20 June, 1:30am: Brazil vs Haiti, Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
  • 24 June, 11pm: Scotland vs Brazil, Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens
  • 24 June, 11pm: Morocco vs Haiti, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta

Brazil

The wait since Brazil's last World Cup win in 2002 has stretched long. Their drought now matches the 24-year gap between 1970 and 1994. Should they fall short again, it would mark their longest title absence since their first crown in 1958.

A notable change sees Carlo Ancelotti, the first foreign coach in Brazil's history, leading the side. Ancelotti, a five-time Champions League winner, brings a calm presence to this high-pressure role. His decision to recall Neymar, aged 34 and sidelined since October 2023, adds intrigue. Neymar remains Brazil’s all-time top scorer but has struggled with form and fitness, raising questions about the squad’s depth.

Key players:Vinicius Jr shines as the heir apparent to Neymar’s throne, especially under Ancelotti’s guidance. His dazzling dribbling and sharp finishing make him Brazil’s brightest star. Young winger Rayan, recently impressive at Bournemouth, could surprise many with his power and precision.

FIFA Ranking: 6Odds to win: 10/1

Brazil Squad Highlights

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

Morocco

The Atlas Lions created history in 2022 by reaching the World Cup semi-finals, the first African nation to do so. Yet their road to 2026 has been rocky. Coach Walid Regragui left just months before the tournament, citing a need for fresh energy. Controversy surrounded the Africa Cup of Nations final, where Morocco were declared champions after Senegal’s disqualification.

Despite controversy, Morocco’s defensive strength proved key in Qatar. Expect a resilient team once more, capable of frustrating opponents. Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz, who was top scorer in AFCON despite missing a crucial penalty, will seek redemption. Forward Ayoub El Kaabi offers spectacular aerial skills, including multiple bicycle kicks that made headlines.

FIFA Ranking: 8Odds to win: 50/1

Morocco Squad Highlights

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

Scotland

Scotland's return to the World Cup sparked unforgettable moments, with Scott McTominay’s overhead kick and Kieran Tierney’s curling goal standing out during qualification. Despite recent major tournament exits without wins, Steve Clarke’s team holds onto hope, especially with an expanded 48-team format where one victory might suffice to advance.

The opening game against Haiti is critical. Following that, tough clashes with Morocco and Brazil loom. Experience lies in midfielders like McTominay and John McGinn, who bring leadership from their Premier League and Serie A clubs. However, concerns remain over the absence of a proven goal scorer, limited pace on the wings, and minimal playing time among goalkeepers.

Veteran goalkeeper Craig Gordon, potentially the second oldest World Cup player at 43, represents the squad’s ageing core, emphasizing this tournament as a rare chance to shine on the global stage.

FIFA Ranking: 43Odds to win: 250/1

Scotland Squad Highlights

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

Haiti

Haiti’s journey to the World Cup defied odds as they qualified without playing any home matches due to ongoing unrest and humanitarian crises. Their coach, Frenchman Sebastien Migne, has never visited Haiti. The squad mainly consists of players based abroad, with Woodensky Pierre receiving his US visa only recently. Haitian fans cannot attend matches in the US, but a passionate diaspora hopes to rally behind the team.

Duckens Nazon, captain and top scorer in qualifying with six goals, leads the attack. Forward Wilson Isidor brings fresh energy following a strong season at Sunderland and a switch of international allegiance.

FIFA Ranking: 83Odds to win: 5000/1

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

Group C Outlook

Expect Brazil and Morocco to top the group. Scotland should finish third with three points from beating Haiti. Whether that’s enough to progress remains uncertain, but avoiding heavy defeats to Brazil and Morocco could keep their hopes alive.

Related News