The draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been revealed, outlining Scotland's potential path in the tournament, their first since 1998. Scotland secured their place after a dramatic qualifying campaign, topping Group C. The Scots now know the opponents they must overcome to progress through the competition.
Scotland finds itself in Group C alongside Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti. Their first match will be against Haiti on June 13, with the venue to be either Gillette Stadium in Foxborough or MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. They will then face Morocco on June 18, at either Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia or Gillette Stadium. The group stage will conclude with a match against Brazil on June 24, to be held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami or Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
The draw evokes memories of the 1998 World Cup in France, where Scotland also faced Brazil and Morocco. In that tournament, they lost 2-1 to Brazil and 3-0 to Morocco. The match against Brazil will be particularly poignant, with fans remembering the opening game of France 98.
Topping Group C would guarantee Scotland automatic qualification. Finishing second would give them a spot in the UEFA play-offs in March 2026, where 16 teams will compete for four remaining European slots.
The 2026 World Cup will be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament will begin on June 11 in Mexico City, with the final taking place on July 19 in New York. This expanded format includes 48 teams. The group stage will run until June 27, with the knockout stage starting on June 28.
While a dream scenario would see Scotland drawn against Canada, Iran and Cape Verde, a "group of death" could have seen them face Argentina, Senegal and Italy.
Steve Clarke's team secured their place at the World Cup with a 4-2 victory over Denmark at Hampden Park. Goals from Scott McTominay, Lawrence Shankland, Kieran Tierney, and Kenny McLean sealed their place as one of the group winners. 42 teams have already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, including Scotland.
