Scotland enter their second World Cup 2026 group stage fixture needing a result, as they prepare to face Morocco in Group C. After a positive opening game, Steve Clarke's side now meet a North African outfit that the bookmakers regard as heavy favourites.

With Brazil still to come for Scotland, the pressure to collect points is immense. A defeat here would leave the Scots relying on a top-three finish among the eight best third-place teams — a precarious position in any World Cup group.

Morocco in the driving seat

Morocco arrive in confident mood following an impressive performance against Brazil in their opening match. That result has placed them in a strong position to seal qualification, with Haiti awaiting them after this Scotland encounter.

The bookies at Boyle Sports reflect that confidence, pricing Morocco at 8/13 to win, with a draw available at 5/2 and Scotland at 9/2 to cause an upset.

Scotland's squad is not without quality, and players such as Scott McTominay and John McGinn carry the experience needed to test any opponent. Clarke's men will need to be at their best to extract anything from a Morocco side that has looked sharp in this tournament.

Hakimi news casts shadow

Morocco's preparations have been complicated by the news that star defender Achraf Hakimi is to stand trial on rape charges. How that development affects the squad's focus remains to be seen, though Morocco still possess considerable depth across the pitch.

Scotland will hope the distraction plays in their favour, but on current form and the balance of the odds, Morocco appear to have more than enough to see off the challenge.

Score prediction: Scotland 1-3 Morocco

How to watch

The match will be broadcast live on ITV and STV in the United Kingdom, FOX in the United States, and SBS in Australia.