The wait is almost over as Haiti prepares to return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 52 years. The Grenadiers are set to face Scotland, Brazil, and Morocco in Group C starting June 13, 2026.
Why it matters: Haiti's participation in the World Cup is a monumental moment for the nation, which has faced numerous challenges. This tournament offers a chance for national pride and unity.
Haiti qualified for the 2026 World Cup by topping the North American qualification group, overcoming Costa Rica, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
This marks Haiti's second World Cup appearance, with their first being in 1974, where they lost all three group-stage matches.
The team's success in qualifying comes against a backdrop of political violence and civil unrest, preventing them from playing on home soil.
Driving the news: Haiti's World Cup campaign kicks off with a match against Scotland on June 13, followed by games against Brazil on June 19 and Morocco on June 24.
Haiti's opening match against Scotland is scheduled for 2 AM BST on June 14, 2026, which is 9 PM EST on June 13.
Broadcast coverage for these matches will be available on FOX and FS1 for English speakers, and Telemundo and Universo for Spanish speakers.
Fans in Haiti can watch the matches through Tele Haiti and Canal+ Haiti, ensuring comprehensive local coverage.
State of play: The Haitian squad is filled with talent, including players with international experience who could make a difference in their World Cup matches.
Duckens Nazon, Haiti’s all-time leading goal scorer, is expected to lead the attack, having scored 44 goals in his career.
Midfielder Jean-Ricner Bellegarde and forward Wilson Isidor bring Premier League experience, enhancing the team's competitiveness.
Goalkeeper Johny Placide provides stability and leadership as the last line of defense.
The big picture: Haiti's recent performance in friendlies has boosted confidence ahead of the World Cup.
In a pre-World Cup friendly, Haiti stunned New Zealand with a 4-0 victory, demonstrating their potential to compete on the world stage.
Coach Sebastien Migne, who has led the team for two years without visiting Haiti, has prepared the squad to face tough opponents.
With a FIFA ranking of 83, Haiti will need to outperform expectations to advance past the group stage.
What they're saying: The excitement surrounding Haiti's World Cup return is evident among players and fans alike.
"Any kind of success in the World Cup would be a balm of relief for a country that has had little to celebrate," said a sports analyst.
Duckens Nazon expressed optimism, stating, "We have the tools to put up a fight and make our country proud."
Fans are eagerly anticipating the matches, hoping for memorable moments that could become part of Haiti's football folklore.
Key facts
Haiti's Group C matches: Scotland (June 13), Brazil (June 19), Morocco (June 24).
Pre-World Cup friendlies: Haiti vs. New Zealand (June 2) and Peru (June 5).