Scotland World Cup 2026 guide: Fixtures, prediction, key player and odds

Scotland are back on the world’s biggest stage since 1998, but face a difficult task in Group C of the 2026 World Cup.

Remarkably it is the fifth time Scotland have been paired with Brazil at the group stage of the World Cup - including all of their last three appearances. Last edition’s semi-finalists Morocco are the other big hitters in the group, whilst Haiti are expected to be the pool’s whipping boys.

Strength in midfield is mitigated by a crop of rusty goalkeepers without much gametime and a strikeforce lacking in goals outside of Lawrence Shankland.

Goalkeepers: Craig Gordon, Angus Gunn, Liam Kelly

Defenders: Grant Hanley, Jack Hendry, Aaron Hickey, Dom Hyam, Scott McKenna, Nathan Patterson, Anthony Ralston, Andy Robertson, John Souttar, Kieran Tierney

Midfielders: Ryan Christie, Findlay Curtis, Lewis Ferguson, Ben Gannon-Doak, Tyler Fletcher, John McGinn, Kenny McLean, Scott McTominay

Forwards: Che Adams, Lyndon Dykes, George Hirst, Lawrence Shankland, Ross Stewart

(all times BST)

Scotland’s hopes of progression will likely hinge on defeating Haiti in their Group C opener. The Haitians are the second-lowest ranked team in the competition. With eight of 12 third-placed teams advancing based on record, three points from Haiti will be crucial.

A point from the remaining two games - against opponents in FIFA’s top 10 - should be enough to book a spot in the round of 32. Scotland were on the end of a heavy defeat to group favourites Germany at the 2024 Euros, and Steve Clarke’s men cannot afford to ship goals to Brazil or Morocco. Getting out of the group would be a decent achievement for Scotland’s first World Cup since 1998.

Scott McTominay’s transfer to Napoli has paid off in more ways than one. Not only has the Manchester United academy graduate picked up silverware with the Serie A title, he has improved and evolved into a leading role in the heart of midfield.

He’s taken that club form to the international level, with stunning goals helping Scotland over the line and to qualification. Scotland’s midfield as a whole will be key - John McGinn has impressed again for Aston Villa, his workrate and tenacity in particular will be needed following injury to Billy Gilmour.

Odds provided by World Cup betting sites. Subject to change. Find World Cup free bets from UK bookmakers. 18+. Gamble responsibly.

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