Brazil may be the standout name in Group C, but they are far from the only team with big ambitions. The five-time world champions enter the tournament as favorites to top the group, while Morocco will be looking to prove their historic 2022 World Cup run was no fluke. Scotland are dreaming of a first appearance in the knockout stages of a World Cup in decades, and Haiti will be eager to show they belong on football’s biggest stage.
Brazil: Chasing a sixth World Cup crown
Every World Cup brings pressure for Brazil, and 2026 is no different. It has now been more than two decades since the Seleção last lifted the trophy, and expectations remain sky-high for one of football’s most decorated nations.
Brazil arrive with a squad packed with elite talent. Vinícius Júnior remains one of the most feared attackers in world football after another influential season with Real Madrid, while Rodrygo, Bruno Guimarães, Gabriel Magalhães, and Alisson provide quality throughout the spine of the team. Under Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil have sought to combine their traditional attacking flair with greater tactical discipline.
Anything less than top spot in Group C would be considered a major surprise, and many expect Brazil to challenge deep into the tournament.
Player to watch: Vinícius Júnior
After another strong campaign with Real Madrid, Vinícius remains Brazil’s biggest attacking threat. His pace, dribbling, and ability to decide matches in one-on-one situations make him one of the most dangerous players at the World Cup. Brazil will look to him to provide the spark in the biggest moments.
Morocco: Determined to build on history
Morocco captured the imagination of football fans around the world in 2022 when they became the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final. Four years later, they arrive with a point to prove and a desire to show that achievement was not a one-off.
Walid Regragui’s side remains built on defensive organization, discipline, and quick transitions. Achraf Hakimi continues to be one of the world’s best attacking full-backs, while Sofyan Amrabat provides steel in midfield. Up front, Morocco possess quality through players such as Youssef En-Nesyri and Brahim Díaz.
They should comfortably compete for a knockout-stage place and could once again emerge as one of the tournament’s most difficult teams to beat.
Player to watch: Achraf Hakimi
Hakimi enjoyed another successful season with Paris Saint-Germain, helping the French giants to another Champions League title. He has continued to establish himself as one of the best right-backs in world football. His ability to influence games at both ends of the pitch makes him Morocco’s most important player.
Scotland: Ready for the next step
Scotland have become a regular presence at major tournaments in recent years, but the next challenge is turning appearances into meaningful runs.
Steve Clarke’s side is built around hard work, organization, and a strong collective identity. Players such as Andy Robertson, Scott McTominay, and John McGinn bring experience and leadership, while Scotland’s midfield remains one of the strongest areas of the squad.
The Scots may not have Brazil’s star power, but they will believe they can compete with Morocco for second place. Reaching the knockout stages would represent a significant achievement and a landmark moment for modern Scottish football.
Player to watch: Scott McTominay
McTominay followed up his remarkable debut season at Napoli with another influential campaign in Italy. His goals from midfield and ability to impact matches in both penalty areas have made him one of Scotland’s most important players. Few players embody the team’s fighting spirit better than McTominay.
Haiti: Looking to make their mark
Haiti enter the tournament as Group C’s outsiders, but that does not mean they should be overlooked. Simply reaching the World Cup is a major achievement, and they will be determined to make the most of the opportunity.
The Haitians typically play with energy and attacking intent, often relying on pace and direct football to trouble opponents. While they may lack the depth of some of the other teams in the group, they possess enough talent to cause problems if underestimated.
A place in the knockout stages would be a huge surprise, but Haiti will view every match as a chance to showcase their progress on the global stage.
Player to watch: Duckens Nazon
The experienced forward remains Haiti’s leading figure and one of the most recognizable names in the squad. Nazon’s goals and leadership have been crucial throughout Haiti’s journey to the World Cup, and his experience could prove invaluable against elite opposition.
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