Brazil are set to face an early challenge in Group C against Morocco, who reached the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup, and Scotland, who are aiming to make a historic breakthrough on the global stage.

After a series of knockout-stage disappointments against leading European sides, Brazil turned to the experienced Italian manager, the most successful coach in UEFA Champions League history, in a bid to secure a sixth World Cup title.

Neymar debate dominates preparations

Brazil’s preparations have been overshadowed by debate surrounding Neymar’s inclusion in Ancelotti’s squad.

The 34-year-old forward is set to appear in his fourth World Cup despite not having featured for the national team over the past three years.

While Neymar is expected to play a limited on-field role, attention will focus on Ancelotti’s ability to get the best out of an unbalanced squad.

Goalkeeper Alisson Becker, alongside central defenders Gabriel Magalhães and Marquinhos, provides Brazil with one of the tournament’s strongest defensive foundations. However, concerns remain in the full-back positions, midfield, and centre-forward role compared with previous Brazilian generations.

Brazil also endured an underwhelming qualifying campaign, losing six of their 18 matches, while friendly defeats against Japan and France since Ancelotti’s appointment have done little to boost confidence.

Still, the five-time Champions League-winning coach boasts a proven record in knockout competitions and previously helped Vinícius Júnior flourish during their time together at Real Madrid.

With the opportunity to step out of Kylian Mbappé’s shadow at club level, Vinícius remains one of world football’s brightest attacking talents and could prove decisive for Brazil’s hopes.

Morocco begins new era after coaching change

An opening defeat against Morocco would immediately increase pressure on Ancelotti and his squad.

Led by Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi, Morocco stunned Spain and Portugal on their way to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals in Qatar and later defeated Brazil for the first time in their history in 2023.

However, Morocco’s momentum slowed following a chaotic conclusion to the Africa Cup of Nations held on home soil earlier this year.

Senegal temporarily walked off the pitch after Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty. When play resumed, Brahim Díaz missed the spot-kick before Senegal secured a 1-0 extra-time victory.

Although Morocco were later declared champions by the Confederation of African Football, the fallout from the incident remained significant.

Walid Regragui, who guided Morocco to become the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final, stepped down in March and was replaced by Mohammed Wahbi.

Scotland target historic progress

Scotland will aim to play the role of dangerous outsiders as they return to the World Cup stage for the first time in 28 years.

Steve Clarke’s squad includes several high-profile players, including Andy Robertson, John McGinn, and Scott McTominay, who have all won major European honours. Scotland will target progression beyond the group stage for the first time in their history.

An opening match against Haiti presents Scotland with an ideal opportunity to make a strong start.

Haiti, returning to the World Cup for the first time since 1974, currently rank 83rd in the world. The Caribbean nation, which continues to face severe humanitarian challenges linked to gang violence, will hope to earn its first-ever World Cup point but are widely viewed as the weakest side in the group.