World Cup 2026 Group C Preview: Scotland’s Return Rekindles Memories of Brazil and Morocco, But Will Haiti Be the Surprise?

Scotland's return to the World Cup stage reunites them with two familiar faces from 28 years ago: Brazil and Morocco. Joining these teams is Haiti, making only their second World Cup appearance and their first since 1974. The opening match against Haiti in Foxborough could be decisive for Scotland’s hopes to finally advance beyond a group stage in a major tournament.

This group stands out as the only one at this expanded World Cup featuring two top-10 ranked nations: Brazil, the record five-time champions, and Morocco, African champions and semi-finalists four years ago. It promises intense 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: Chasing Glory With Ancelotti at the Helm

Brazil has not lifted the World Cup trophy since 2002, enduring a 24-year wait that matches a previous dry spell between 1970 and 1994. Their legendary football culture means failing to win again would mark their longest drought since their first star in 1958.

This time, Carlo Ancelotti, the first foreign coach in Brazil’s history and a decorated European manager, leads the squad. His calm presence may bring a different vibe to the Selecao's bid for glory. Neymar’s surprising recall after nearly three years off adds intrigue but also raises questions about the team’s depth and fitness.

Neymar, now 34, remains an injury doubt for the opener. The squad includes established names such as goalkeeper Alisson, defender Marquinhos, and exciting forwards like Vinicius Jr, who has formed a close bond with Ancelotti at Real Madrid.

Brazil Squad Highlights

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

Star player: Vinicius Jr, known for his thrilling dribbling and clutch performances.Breakout talent: Rayan, a powerful young winger making waves at Bournemouth.

Fifa ranking: 6Odds to win: 10/1

Morocco: Defending Their Historic Run Amid Controversy

The Atlas Lions stunned the world by reaching the semi-finals in 2022, a first for an African nation. Their preparations for 2026 were marked by turmoil after their coach Walid Regragui left, citing the need for fresh energy following a contentious Africa Cup of Nations final, which saw Senegal stripped of the title after a walk-off.

Despite some questionable refereeing aiding their path, Morocco’s defensive resilience was key to their success. Expectations remain high that they will once again be difficult 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, seeking redemption after a missed Panenka in the AFCON final.Breakout talent: Ayoub El Kaabi, famed for spectacular overhead kicks.

Fifa ranking: 8Odds to win: 50/1

Scotland: Returning With Hope and Experience

Scotland’s qualification sparked joy, highlighted by stunning goals from Scott McTominay, Kieran Tierney, and Kenny McLean during their 4-2 triumph over Denmark. Yet the challenge ahead is tough.

Under coach Steve Clarke, Scotland have struggled at major tournaments, failing to secure a win in six games. The expanded 48-team format offers some hope, with a win against Haiti potentially enough to progress, but matches against Morocco and Brazil will be demanding.

The squad combines experience with talent, led by midfielders McTominay and John McGinn, both influential at club level. Concerns linger around goal-scoring and pace on the wings. Veteran goalkeeper Craig Gordon, at 43, could make history as one of the oldest players at the tournament.

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, whose arrival in the box and moments of brilliance provide hope.Breakout talent: Ben Gannon Doak, a winger with pace and skill, though hampered recently by injury.

Fifa ranking: 43Odds to win: 250/1

Haiti: Against All Odds

Haiti’s journey to the World Cup has been extraordinary. They qualified despite never playing at home due to severe security issues and a humanitarian crisis in Port-au-Prince. Their coach, Sebastien Migne, has yet to visit the country. Home games took place in Curacao, far from their fans.

The squad mostly plays abroad, with captain Duckens Nazon leading the attack after scoring six goals in qualifying. Haitian fans cannot attend matches in the U.S., but a large diaspora will support passionately.

Haiti Squad Highlights

• Goalkeepers: Johnny Placide (Bastia)
• Defenders: Carlens Arcus (Angers), Jean-Kevin Duverne (KAA Gent)
• Midfielders: Leverton Pierre (Vizela), Jean-Ricner Bellegarde (Wolves)
• Forwards: Duckens Nazon (Esteghlal), Wilson Isidor (Sunderland)

Star player: Duckens Nazon, Haiti’s all-time top scorer.Breakout talent: Wilson Isidor, French-born forward with a strong recent season.

Fifa ranking: 83Odds to win: 5000/1

Group C Outlook

Scotland might finish third behind Brazil and Morocco, likely earning three points from a win over Haiti. Whether that’s enough to qualify is uncertain. Close losses against the stronger teams could prove vital. This group combines history, drama, and emerging stories that promise to captivate fans throughout the tournament.