Scotland started their 2026 FIFA World Cup journey with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Haiti on Saturday night at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, Yankee Scores reports.
This victory marked Scotland’s first win at the World Cup in 36 years, and the Tartan Army quickly made their presence known.
John McGinn scored the first goal in the 28th minute. It had been 10,244 days since Scotland last found the net in a World Cup match, when Craig Burley scored back in 1998.
FULL TIME: Haiti 0-1 Scotland.
A win to kick-off our @FIFAWorldCup campaign!#HAISCO | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/PyNPlYWuG3
— Scotland National Team (@ScotlandNT) June 14, 2026
The Aston Villa midfielder capitalized on a loose ball after goalkeeper Johny Placide deflected Che Adams’ shot. McGinn’s effort deflected in, giving Scotland the lead.
Haiti, making their first World Cup appearance since 1974, refused to back down. Les Grenadiers improved in the second half and came very close to equalizing. Frantzdy Pierrot’s late header went just past the post, highlighting a frustrating night for the Caribbean team.
According to ESPN, this win puts Scotland at the top of what many consider the toughest group in the World Cup.
This result is significant for Scotland’s chances of reaching the knockout rounds. A draw would have left them in a tough spot heading into matches against Brazil and Morocco.
Now, they approach those games with real confidence and the possibility of making history.
Haiti will need to regroup quickly. Their World Cup dream is still alive, but they have little room for error.
