Brazil
The most decorated nation in World Cup history arrives under new coach Carlo Ancelotti with the familiar weight of five-star expectation. Brazil finished fifth in South American qualifying – losing six of 18 matches – and their performances have raised questions heading into the tournament.
Vinicius Junior remains their most dangerous attacking weapon while Neymar’s controversial recall at 34 after a three-year international absence has divided opinion. Brazil open the group against Morocco at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Players to watch: Vinicius Junior and Raphinha.
Morocco
The Atlas Lions arrive as Africa’s most credible World Cup contender. Their remarkable run to the semi-finals in Qatar in 2022 – eliminating Belgium, Spain and Portugal along the way – announced them as a genuine force in world football. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi has maintained the defensive solidity and collective spirit that defined that campaign while refreshing the squad with younger talent.
Achraf Hakimi remains the undisputed leader. They open against Brazil in a fixture that could define the entire group.
Players to watch: Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Diaz.
Scotland
Scotland return to the World Cup stage for the first time since 1998 – their first appearance in 28 years. Steve Clarke’s side sealed qualification dramatically, scoring two stoppage-time goals to pip Denmark to top spot in their qualifying group.
Historically the group is familiar territory – Brazil, Morocco and Scotland were all in Group A at the 1998 World Cup, the last time Scotland qualified.
Players to watch: Andy Robertson and Scott McTominay.
Haiti
Haiti make only their second ever World Cup appearance – their first since 1974. They qualified by winning their CONCACAF group and arrive as the tournament’s biggest wildcard.
Coach Sebastien Migne has built a physically dynamic side capable of causing problems for any opponent on their day.
Players to watch: Wilson Isidor and Frantzdy Pierrot.
Brazil are the clear favourites to top Group C. The battle for second place between Morocco and Scotland is the most compelling storyline – with Haiti capable of disrupting either side’s plans.
The fixtures
14 Jun: Brazil vs Morocco – MetLife Stadium, New Jersey – 00:00 SAST
14 Jun: Haiti vs Scotland – Gillette Stadium, Foxborough – 03:00 SAST
20 Jun: Scotland vs Morocco – Gillette Stadium, Foxborough – 00:00 SAST
20 Jun: Brazil vs Haiti – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 03:00 SAST
25 Jun: Scotland vs Brazil – Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 00:00 SAST
25 Jun: Morocco vs Haiti – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 00:00 SAST
Photo: Yuri Laurindo/Sports Press Photo/Getty Images
