Mexico, June 6:
Five-time champions Brazil headline Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they chase a record-extending sixth title, while Morocco seek to build on their historic run in Qatar and Scotland and Haiti return to the global stage after lengthy absences.
Brazil
Brazil arrive in North America after a turbulent qualifying campaign that saw Carlo Ancelotti replace Dorival Junior following a heavy defeat to Argentina. Although the Selecao secured qualification, a fifth-place finish in South American qualifying highlighted their recent struggles.
Ancelotti has introduced an attack-minded approach centred on pace and counterattacking football, though injuries to key players, including Rodrygo and Estevao, have disrupted preparations.
Veteran forward Neymar returned to the squad after a lengthy injury absence but remains a fitness concern.Star player: Vinicius Junior – The Real Madrid winger will shoulder much of Brazil’s attacking responsibility.
Player to watch: Endrick – The 19-year-old striker could emerge as a game-changer with his pace and eye for goal.
Morocco
Morocco enter the tournament carrying high expectations after becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup semifinal in 2022. Former under-20 coach Mohamed Ouahbi has taken charge following Walid Regragui’s departure and is expected to deploy an attacking style of play.
Star player: Achraf Hakimi – The Paris Saint-Germain full-back remains Morocco’s most influential figure.Player to watch: Neil El Aynaoui – The versatile midfielder is viewed as a rising star capable of driving Morocco’s campaign.
Haiti
Haiti’s qualification marks one of the stories of the tournament, with the Caribbean nation returning to the World Cup for the first time since 1974.
Forced to play qualifying matches away from home because of the country’s security situation, Haiti secured their place with a disciplined and resilient campaign.
Star player: Duckens Nazon – The experienced striker is Haiti’s main attacking threat.
Player to watch: Ruben Providence – The pacey winger has the ability to trouble defences on the counterattack.
Scotland
Scotland return to the World Cup for the first time since 1998 after qualifying under Steve Clarke, who has revitalised the national team since taking over in 2019.
The Scots are aiming to progress beyond the group stage for the first time in their history.
Star player: Scott McTominay – The Napoli midfielder is the driving force behind Scotland’s midfield.Player to watch: Ben Doak – The exciting young winger could be one of the breakout stars of the tournament.
Howver, with Brazil expected to top the group C, Morocco, Scotland and Haiti will have to battle for what could be a fiercely contested second qualification spot.