Match Preview
The FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage brings a fresh matchup as Haiti take on Scotland at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. It’s the kind of opening-round fixture that can swing a whole group: Scotland will want to start with control and authority, while Haiti will aim to make the game chaotic, emotional, and difficult to manage.
Scotland usually look most comfortable when the match becomes a duel-heavy contest with clear structure. They like to defend with discipline, stay compact between the lines, and push the ball into wide areas where they can create pressure and win second balls. If Scotland settle early, they can turn this into a “territory” game pinning Haiti back and forcing long spells of defending.
Haiti, however, are not a team that you can relax against. They often play with fearless energy, attacking space quickly when the chance appears. If Haiti can keep their defensive shape for long periods, their counter-attacks become dangerous especially when Scotland commit numbers forward and leave room behind the first press.
Tactically, the first 20 minutes matter a lot. Scotland will want calm build-up and controlled tempo. Haiti will want fast transitions, pressure moments, and direct runs that test concentration. If Scotland score first, their structure can take over. If Haiti score first or keep it level deep into the second half— the pressure flips and the match can turn into a test of decision-making.
World Cup group games can be tight for long stretches. Small details decide them: set pieces, a single mistake in midfield, or one perfectly timed run. Expect intensity, nerves, and a game that grows sharper as it goes on.
TV Broadcast and Livestreams
World Cup broadcast rights vary by country. Check your local official FIFA broadcast partners and sports networks for confirmed TV coverage and streaming options in your region.
Match Information
| Date | 13 June 2026 |
|---|---|
| Kick-off Time | 9:00 PM (Local Time, ET) / 6:30 AM Sri Lanka Time (14 June) |
| Venue | Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA |
| Competition | FIFA World Cup 2026 – Group Stage (Group C) |
Odds (1X2)
| Result | Odds |
|---|---|
| 1 Haiti | ~4.60 |
| X Draw | ~3.70 |
| 2 Scotland | ~1.75 |
Note: Odds can move closer to kick-off depending on team news and market activity. Group-stage openers can also be tighter than expected because both sides manage risk early.
Form and Head-to-Head
| Team | Style Snapshot |
|---|---|
| Haiti | Energetic and direct in transition; best when they can attack open space and keep intensity high. |
| Scotland | Organised and physical; prefers controlled tempo, strong duels, and structured attacking patterns. |
Matchup feel: Scotland will aim to slow Haiti’s momentum and keep the ball away from dangerous transition moments. Haiti will look for quick forward breaks and set-piece pressure whenever Scotland lose shape.
Key Battles to Watch
- Scotland’s control vs Haiti’s chaos: Can Scotland keep the tempo calm and avoid transition mistakes?
- Midfield turnovers: Losing the ball centrally could be punished quickly in a World Cup opener.
- Set pieces: Dead balls often decide tight group matches where open-play chances are limited.
- First goal: It will shape the entire rhythm especially with the stakes of a first group game.
Prediction
Final Score Prediction: Haiti 0-2 Scotland
Prediction: Scotland’s organisation and game management should help them control long spells, especially if they score first. Haiti can be dangerous in bursts, but Scotland’s structure and physical edge make them the safer pick over 90 minutes.
Best Bet Ideas (safer style): Scotland draw no bet, or Under 3.5 goals. Opening group matches often stay controlled unless an early goal forces the game open.