World Cup 2026 Group C Preview: Scotland’s Return Stirs Memories, Brazil and Morocco Eye Glory, Haiti Seeks Breakthrough

Group C Overview

After 28 years, Scotland is back in the World Cup, reuniting with familiar foes Brazil and Morocco from their last shared group stage encounter. Joining them is Haiti, making just their second appearance since 1974. The opening match against Haiti will be crucial for Scotland’s hopes of advancing beyond a major tournament group for the first time.

This group stands out as it includes two top-10 ranked teams: Brazil, the five-time champions, and Morocco, the African champions who reached the World Cup semi-finals four years ago. The mix promises an intriguing challenge for all involved.

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

Since their last World Cup win in 2002, Brazil has struggled to reach the final stages again. The 24-year gap without a title matches the longest drought in their history, making this tournament a pivotal moment. Their squad is under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, the first foreign coach in their history and a multiple Champions League winner. His presence adds an unusual dynamic to the team.

Neymar’s unexpected recall at 34, despite not playing for Brazil since late 2023 and ongoing fitness concerns, raises questions about whether Brazil rely too much on star power over squad depth. The midfield and defense face scrutiny regarding their ability to carry the team all the way.

Brazil Squad Highlights

• Goalkeepers: Alisson, Ederson, Weverton
• Defenders: Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Achraf Hakimi among others
• Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes, Casemiro, Lucas Paqueta
• Forwards: Vinicius Jr, Neymar, Raphinha

Vinicius Jr stands out as the heir apparent to Neymar’s role, having flourished under Ancelotti’s coaching at Real Madrid. His skill and composure in big matches could prove decisive. A rising star to watch is Rayan, a powerful winger who quickly made his mark at Bournemouth after moving from Vasco da Gama.

Fifa Ranking: 6World Cup Odds: 10/1

Morocco

Morocco stunned many by reaching the World Cup semi-finals in 2022, the first African team to do so. Their path to 2026 has been complicated, especially after their coach Walid Regragui stepped down months before the tournament, seeking new energy for the team. Controversy from the Africa Cup of Nations final still looms, with Senegal stripped of the title after a walk-off.

Despite some reliance on favorable refereeing decisions during Afcon, Morocco’s defensive solidity was key to their 2022 success. They remain a tough side to break down and could disrupt stronger opponents.

Morocco Squad Highlights

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

Brahim Diaz leads Morocco’s attack and seeks redemption after missing a crucial Panenka in the Afcon final. Another exciting talent is Ayoub El Kaabi, known for spectacular overhead kicks and acrobatic finishes that might light up the World Cup stage once more.

Fifa Ranking: 8World Cup Odds: 50/1

Scotland

The 28-year wait ended with unforgettable moments as Scotland qualified thanks to stunning goals from Scott McTominay, Kieran Tierney, and Kenny McLean. This return to the World Cup brings hope, but the real test begins now.

Coach Steve Clarke has guided Scotland to three major tournaments in six years, but victory at these events has remained elusive with no wins in six matches. The expanded 48-team format means one win could be enough to progress, making the opener against Haiti vital.

Experienced players like McTominay and John McGinn provide leadership, but concerns linger over the lack of a proven goal scorer, limited pace on the wings, and goalkeeper experience. Craig Gordon, at 43, could become the second-oldest player in World Cup history if called upon.

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

Scott McTominay has blossomed into a key figure, especially since joining Napoli, where he won a scudetto and earned a Ballon d’Or nomination. His knack for arriving late in the box could be Scotland’s best chance to score. Rising star Ben Gannon Doak impressed in qualifiers but recently returned from injury, potentially affecting his impact.

Fifa Ranking: 43World Cup Odds: 250/1

Haiti

Returning to the World Cup after 52 years, Haiti qualified despite facing severe challenges, including not playing a single home game due to political instability and gang violence. Coach Sebastien Migne has never set foot in the country, and the team played its ‘home’ qualifiers far away in Curacao.

Most of Haiti’s players compete abroad, and fans face travel bans to the United States, though a large diaspora may offer vocal support. Their qualification victory over Nicaragua marked a historic moment.

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

Duckens Nazon leads as captain and top scorer in qualifying with six goals. Wilson Isidor, switching allegiances recently, had a strong season with Sunderland and could be a surprise factor.

Fifa Ranking: 83World Cup Odds: 5000/1

Group C Outlook

We think Brazil and Morocco will finish top two, with Scotland taking third place after a win against Haiti. Whether three points and a narrow defeat to one of the heavyweights will suffice to advance remains uncertain. Scotland faces a challenging but potentially rewarding path.