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Join on Telegram With just days remaining before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Morocco’s Group C opponents are putting the finishing touches on their preparations. While the Atlas Lions continue their own build-up, the latest friendly matches have offered a valuable glimpse into the strengths, weaknesses and ambitions of the teams standing in Morocco’s path.
Drawn alongside Brazil, Scotland and Haiti, Morocco finds itself in one of the tournament’s most intriguing groups. The Atlas Lions enter the competition as Africa’s highest-ranked nation, taking over 7th place in the FIFA World Ranking, and one of the most respected teams in world football after their historic run to the semi-finals in Qatar 2022.
Brazil: The favorite, but not without questions
Five-time world champions Brazil remain the biggest name in Group C. The Seleção qualified through the demanding South American qualifiers and arrived at the tournament as a Pot 1 nation, reflecting their status among the world’s top countries in football.
They are making their 23rd World Cup appearance and are chasing a sixth title, their first since 2002.
In their latest friendly, Carlo Ancelotti’s side defeated Panama 6-2 at the Maracanã. Vinicius Junior was an active member, scoring and providing an assist, while Brazil’s attacking depth was on full display.
However, the scoreline did not hide several concerns. Brazil, currently ranked 6 in the official FIFA Men’s World Ranking, conceded twice against a Panama side, currently ranked 33 in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking; they were expected to dominate completely.
Injuries have also affected key players, while questions remain over the fitness of Neymar and the aging members of the squad. Defensive solidity and depth in certain positions remain areas of concern.
Morocco’s chances
Brazil will start as favorites statistically when the two nations meet in the group’s opening highly sought-after clash. However, Morocco’s organized defensive structure and ability to perform against whatever opponents have already been proven against Belgium, Spain and Portugal in 2022. If the Atlas Lions can neutralize Brazil’s pace on the wings, a draw is a realistic outcome.
Scotland: back on the world stage after 28 years
Scotland’s return to the World Cup is one of the top stories of the tournament. The Scots topped their UEFA qualifying group to secure their first World Cup appearance since France 1998.
Remarkably, their best World Cup finish remains a group-stage exit, having never progressed beyond the first round.
Placed in Pot 3 for the draw, Scotland enters the tournament with confidence but limited World Cup experience. Steve Clarke has built a disciplined side around players such as Scott McTominay, John McGinn and Andy Robertson, affirming his ambition to go beyond the group stage this World Cup edition.
The Scots may not possess Brazil’s star power, but they compensate with physical intensity, tactical discipline and strong team chemistry.
The Scottish team enjoy several strengths, including a well-organized defensive structure, a strong midfield presence, a dangerous threat from set pieces, and a cohesive squad with clear tactical identity.
The same team faces several problems that can be concluded in limited attacking firepower compared to elite teams, lack of recent World Cup experience. A potential struggle against technically superior opponents.
Morocco’s chances
On paper, this is Morocco’s most important group-stage match. The Atlas Lions arguably possess greater individual quality across most positions. If Morocco controls possession and avoids Scotland’s physical battles, they should have a slight advantage. A victory here could prove decisive in the race for the top two places.
Haiti: the group’s underdog with nothing to lose
Haiti’s qualification is one of the surprises of the tournament. The Caribbean nation returns to the World Cup for the first time since 1974 and only the second time in its history. Les Grenadiers successfully navigated the Concacaf qualification pathway to secure their place in North America.
Drawn from Pot 4, Haiti arrives with little pressure but plenty of enthusiasm. Their squad may lack the depth of the other teams in Group C, yet they possess athleticism, pace and a fearless mentality.
Historically, Haiti has struggled at the World Cup, losing all three matches during its only previous appearance in 1974.
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Morocco’s chances
Morocco will be expected to win this match. While Haiti cannot be underestimated, the difference in quality, experience and squad depth should favor the Atlas Lions. Anything less than three points would be considered a disappointment.
Where does Morocco stand?
Morocco entered the draw as a Pot 2 nation after establishing itself among the world’s top-ranked teams following its historic 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign. The Atlas Lions qualified comfortably from the African qualifiers, becoming one of the first African nations to secure a place at the tournament.
With players such as Achraf Hakimi, Brahim Diaz, Nayef Aguerd, and Ayyoub Bouaddi, Morocco possesses its most talented generation ever.
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Prediction: Can Morocco reach the knockout stage?
Brazil remains the favorite to top Group C. However, Morocco appears well-positioned to finish second and advance to the Round of 32.
Predicted Group C standings
- Brazil
- Morocco
- Scotland
- Haiti
The opening match against Brazil could set the tone for Morocco’s entire campaign. A positive result would immediately boost the Atlas Lions’ chances of topping the group. Even if Morocco falls short against the South Americans, victories over Scotland and Haiti should be enough to secure qualification.
