World Cup 2026: Haiti coach Sébastien Migné confident of qualification chances ahead of Morocco clash

Haiti head coach Sébastien Migné remains optimistic about his side’s chances of reaching the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite opening their campaign with a defeat.

The Caribbean nation suffered a narrow 1-0 loss to Scotland in their Group C opener, with John McGinn scoring the decisive goal in the first half. Haiti responded with determination and continued to search for an equaliser until the final whistle, but were unable to find a breakthrough.

Speaking after the match, Migné insisted that the result had done little to diminish his team’s hopes of progressing from the group.

“We can certainly qualify,” he said. “We knew it would not be easy, but the new rule could allow us to advance if we win our third match against Morocco.”

The expanded World Cup format offers additional opportunities for teams to progress, with the top two sides from each of the 12 groups advancing automatically alongside the eight best third-placed finishers.

Migné explained that Haiti are focused on developing their own style of play while maintaining defensive discipline throughout matches.

“We try to set our rhythm throughout the match without exposing ourselves defensively,” he explained. “We are learning and improving.”

The French tactician acknowledged the challenge presented by Group C, noting that Haiti’s opening encounter came against a Scotland side currently ranked 42nd in the FIFA rankings.

Despite the defeat, Haiti produced encouraging moments, particularly in the latter stages of the contest, where they used their pace to create several opportunities. Migné believes his players must build on that performance by maintaining their confidence and becoming more clinical in front of goal.

Attention now turns to a daunting encounter against five-time world champions Brazil on June 19. Haiti will then conclude their group-stage campaign against Morocco on June 24 in a fixture that could have major implications for qualification.

Morocco began their World Cup journey with a 1-1 draw against Brazil, while Scotland moved to the summit of Group C following their victory over Haiti.

With two matches still to play and the possibility of advancing as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams, Haiti remain firmly in contention as they prepare for a crucial week in their World Cup campaign.