Scotland top Group C as Brazil held by Morocco

Scotland have moved to the top of Group C after the opening round of fixtures in a tightly poised and dramatic start to the World Cup 2026 campaign, where Brazil were held to a 1–1 draw by Morocco in a high-profile clash.

While Brazil were forced to settle for a point after failing to secure a late winner, Scotland capitalised with a narrow 1–0 victory over Haiti to claim maximum points and early control of the group.

In the marquee fixture, Brazil fell behind early against Morocco before Vinícius Júnior restored parity with a crucial equaliser. Despite sustained pressure, the five-time world champions could not find a breakthrough goal, leaving them on a single point from their opening match.

Earlier in the day, Scotland edged Haiti 1–0, a result that not only secured three points but also ended a long World Cup win drought stretching over three decades, giving the European side an early advantage at the summit of the group standings.

Group C standings after Round 1

Scotland — 1 match, 1 win, 3 points, +1 goal difference
Morocco — 1 match, 1 draw, 1 point, 0 goal difference
Brazil — 1 match, 1 draw, 1 point, 0 goal difference
Haiti — 1 match, 1 loss, 0 points, -1 goal difference

Fair play rankings also played a role in early separation between teams level on points, with Morocco marginally ahead of Brazil due to fewer bookings.

Under the tournament format, the top two teams from each group will qualify directly for the round of 16, while the best third-placed teams will also progress to the knockout stage.

Brazil now face increasing pressure heading into their remaining group fixtures, with matches against Haiti on June 19 and group leaders Scotland on June 24 shaping up as decisive in their bid to avoid an early knockout-stage threat.