Carlo Ancelotti has stressed that Brazil must be in peak form for the 2026 World Cup. This comes after the five-time champions learned their opponents in Group C.
The draw, held on Friday, placed Brazil alongside Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti. Morocco famously reached the semi-finals in Qatar in 2022, stunning the football world. Scotland is returning to the tournament after a 28-year absence. Haiti will also feature on the global stage for the first time since 1974.
Ancelotti’s Assessment of Group C
“Morocco were very good during the last World Cup,” Ancelotti told Brazilian broadcaster Sportv. He reflected on the early challenges his side faces in the group. He also cautioned against taking any opponent lightly. “Scotland are a solid team, very solid,” he added, predicting a “pretty difficult” challenge.
Brazil will kick off their campaign against Morocco on June 13. Six days later, they face Haiti. Their final group stage match is against Scotland on June 24. Ancelotti’s target is a strong start to the tournament. “We have to prepare well and try to win the group,” he affirmed.
Brazil’s Road Ahead and Historical Context
The Seleção has endured a challenging period since the Qatar World Cup. They have already seen four different coaches in that time. A stark reminder of their struggles came in March. They suffered a 4-1 defeat to reigning world champions Argentina in a qualifier.
History, however, offers Brazil some confidence. They previously met both Morocco and Scotland at the 1998 World Cup. Brazil beat Morocco 3-0 and Scotland 2-1 on their way to the final. There, they lost 3-0 to hosts France. Six years later, Brazil famously defeated Haiti 6-0 in Port-au-Prince. Stars like Ronaldo and Ronaldinho were on the pitch during that memorable game.
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