Ancelotti says Brazil have 'difficult' World Cup group with Morocco

Carlo Ancelotti, the Brazil manager, described their group as "challenging" after the 2026 World Cup draw on Friday placed them alongside Morocco, the unexpected semi-finalists from the 2022 tournament.

The five-time champions are drawn in Group C with Scotland, returning to the World Cup after a 28-year absence, and Haiti, appearing for just the second time following their 1974 debut where they lost every match.

"Morocco performed exceptionally in the previous World Cup in Qatar," Ancelotti commented to Brazilian broadcaster Sportv.

"Scotland form a robust team, very sturdy, it will prove quite tough," the Italian coach continued.

Brazil open their campaign versus Morocco on 13 June, then face Haiti six days afterwards, before closing the group stage with Scotland on 24 June.

"We need to train thoroughly and aim to finish top of the group," Ancelotti remarked.

Since the last World Cup, Brazil have struggled to hit top form and have cycled through four managers already.

In March, they endured a humiliating 4-1 loss to current world champions Argentina in a World Cup qualifier.

During the 1998 tournament, Brazil encountered both Scotland and Morocco in the group phase, progressing to the final only to suffer a 3-0 defeat against host country France.

On that occasion, they secured a 3-0 victory over Morocco and a 2-1 win against Scotland.

Six years on, they featured in a notable fixture in Port-au-Prince, overwhelming host nation Haiti 6-0 with a lineup including stars like Ronaldo and Ronaldinho.