Scotland aims for strong World Cup opening against Haiti
By Joel Masibo, June 13, 2026Scotland captain Andrew Robertson has emphasised the importance of securing a victory in the team’s first World Cup match against Haiti, especially with tougher challenges against Morocco and Brazil still to come in the group stage.
Speaking to reporters ahead of Saturday’s, June 13, 2026 clash, the defender described participating in the World Cup as a career highlight.
“Representing Scotland at a World Cup is something truly special,” Robertson said. “I’ve been lucky enough to win major honors at club level, but playing for your country on football’s biggest stage is a completely different experience. Everyone in this squad is proud of what we’ve achieved to reach this tournament,” he said.
The Scottish skipper noted that excitement is growing both among supporters and within the team as the opening match approaches.
Gaffer speaks
Head coach Steve Clarke also stressed the significance of starting the campaign on a positive note.
“Getting a good result is important,” Clarke said. “We know the quality of the teams in our group, so it’s essential that we’re fully prepared. The players have trained with the right intensity and focus, and now it’s time to put that work into practice.”
Although Haiti may be viewed by some as the least familiar side in the group, Robertson warned against taking them lightly.
“They’re a very capable team,” he explained. “Their recent performances have shown their strengths. They have pace, physicality, and are dangerous when breaking forward. We’ll need to perform at a high level if we want to get the result we’re after.”
The defender added that Scotland’s primary focus remains on its own performance.
“If we play to our potential, we can compete with anyone,” he said. “But it’s up to us to prove that on the field.”
Scotland will also have to cope with weather conditions that differ significantly from those at home. High temperatures and humidity are expected during the tournament, but Robertson believes the squad has done everything possible to prepare.
“We’ve spent months getting ready for these conditions,” he said. “No one ever becomes completely comfortable in this type of heat, but we’re much better adapted than we were a few weeks ago. The preparation has been thorough, and now it’s about delivering when it matters.”
Team’s unity
Both Robertson and Clarke highlighted the team’s unity as one of its greatest strengths.
Clarke rejected the idea that Scotland relies on a single standout player.
“I see 26 important players in this squad,” he said. “Success over the past several years has come from everyone contributing and working together. That’s been the foundation of everything we’ve achieved.”
Robertson echoed that view, saying the squad’s collective mentality has been key to its progress.
“We don’t focus on individual stars,” he said. “Every player is valued equally, and everyone has a role to play. In a tournament like this, different players can step up at different moments, and that’s what makes a strong team.”
With large numbers of Scottish supporters expected to attend the match, Robertson said the players are eager to give fans something to celebrate.
“Our supporters have waited a long time for this opportunity, and their backing means everything to us,” he said. “We want to reward them with performances they can be proud of.”
As preparations conclude, Scotland’s attention now turns entirely to the challenge ahead.
“The hard work has been done,” Robertson said. “Now we have to execute our plans on the pitch and fight for the win.”
Scotland will begin its World Cup campaign against Haiti on Saturday evening at Boston Stadium in the tournament being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.