For the first time since France 1998, Scotland are back at the World Cup — ending a 28-year absence that has felt painfully long for a passionate footballing nation. Tonight they face Haiti, who make their own extraordinary return after 52 years away, in a Group C opener at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Kick-off is at 9 PM ET (01:00 UTC, 14 June / 04:00 Mecca). (Squawka)

Scotland's long road back

Scotland qualified by topping their UEFA qualifying group under manager Steve Clarke — the first time any Scotland side had led a qualifying group since 1982. It capped a remarkable transformation Clarke has overseen: a team with identity, structure and genuine European-level talent. The achievement alone was cause for national celebration before a ball was even kicked in the tournament.

The squad carries real quality. Andrew Robertson (Liverpool) anchors the left flank and leads the side. Scott McTominay (Manchester United) provides physical energy and an eye for goal from midfield, while Billy Gilmour (Manchester City) brings technical control in central areas. In goal, Angus Gunn has been outstanding. Clarke is expected to set up in a disciplined 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, pressing high and looking to exploit the flanks. (RotoWire)

Haiti's remarkable story

Haiti's tale is equally inspiring. They have not appeared at a World Cup since 1974 in West Germany, where they suffered three straight defeats and conceded 14 goals. Their 2026 qualification through CONCACAF is genuinely historic for Caribbean football. While their squad competes in MLS, the French second division and smaller European leagues, they arrive with the spirit of a team that has already defied expectations. (The Analyst)

Group C context and what's at stake

Group C — which also features Brazil and Morocco — is arguably the toughest pool in the tournament. Scotland and Haiti are realistic outsiders for the top two places, but the 48-team format means the eight best third-placed teams advance, so a strong points tally in third place is absolutely achievable. For both sides, winning tonight is essential to any qualification hope.

Opta's pre-match models give Scotland roughly a 59% win probability, Haiti 17%, and a draw 24%. But World Cup history is full of shocks, especially in first matches. (Sports Mole)

Tactical outlook

Scotland will look to control possession, use Robertson and the right winger to stretch Haiti's defensive line, and work the ball to McTominay for late runs into the box. Haiti will almost certainly sit deep in a low block and aim to frustrate, with dangerous counter-attacks their main threat. Clarke's biggest challenge will be finding a way to break Haiti down without leaving gaps at the back.

Beyond the scoreline

This is more than a football match. For Scotland, it's the end of a long national wait and a chance to prove they belong at football's biggest event. For Haiti — a nation that has faced immense challenges — the World Cup represents joy, pride and the power of football as a unifier. Whatever the result, both stories deserve their place in the spotlight.

Follow the full match report and analysis on Malaab Al-An as soon as the final whistle blows at Gillette Stadium.