World Cup: Group C Preview

Brazil – The winningest team in World Cup history has now waited over two decades to return to the final. After failing to win the Copa America and struggling in WC qualifying, A Seleção made the big decision last May to bring in the legendary Carlo Ancelotti as manager. The team has improved under him but not without bumps in the road, finishing 5th in South American qualifying. Ancelotti made headlines this last week, deciding to bring Neymar along for the ride after a good run of form with Santos. Brazil has been boosted by incredible club form from guys like Igor Thiago, Casemiro, and Gabriel as well. This Brazil team is very well equipped to get back to the top.

Player to watch: Rayan
Ceiling: Champions

Morocco – The Moroccans shocked the world in the 2022 edition of the tournament as they eliminated Spain and Portugal en route to the semifinals. Now, they enter the 2026 World Cup as the highest ranked African side and the African champions (depending on who you ask). Their run through qualifying was flawless, winning all 8 games while only conceding twice. Hakimi and Co’s sights will be set on topping the group like they did four years ago.

Player to watch: Ismael Saibari
Ceiling: Semifinals

Haiti – Les Grenadiers have waited 52 years to get back to the big time, and they’ll be relishing the moment. Despite entering qualifying as an underdog, they ended up topping a group with Costa Rica and Honduras. Duckens Nazon, who plays his club football in Iran, delivered six goals along the way to qualification. Sunderland striker Wilson Isidor has come into the fold recently and will be the main goal threat. Wolves’ Jean Ricner Bellegarde will be the engine in the middle of park. It’ll be tough for them to get anything from this group, but they’ll bring lots of energy.

Player to watch: Lenny Joseph
Ceiling: Group Stage

Scotland – Scotland are back after a 28-year wait! Their qualifying run was electric, being capped off by a Kenny McLean goal from the halfway line against Denmark. Super Scott McTominay is the heart and soul of the team, and he’s surrounded by work horses like John McGinn and Andrew Robertson. The Tartan Army earned their place and have everything they need to do to finally reach the knockouts, something they’ve never done before.

Player to watch: Ben Gannon-Doak
Ceiling: Round of 16