Haiti, which has not played a home match in five years due to gang violence and a severe humanitarian crisis, is gearing up for its first World Cup appearance in 2026. The nation will compete in Group C alongside Scotland and Morocco, and will also face Brazil again in a rare exhibition match that previously drew massive local enthusiasm despite a 6‑0 loss. While the country struggles with chronic electricity shortages, high travel costs, and a travel ban imposed by the U.S., its large diaspora is expected to provide strong support in markets such as Miami and Boston, where the team will open against Scotland.

The squad, composed of 26 players from 15 countries and 25 clubs, is led by French coach Sébastien Migne, who emphasizes heart and belief over any secret tactics. Key players like top scorer Duckens Nazon, who was born in France, and domestic midfielder Woodensky Pierre, raised in the dangerous Cite Soleil slum, embody the hope that football can bring a sense of peace and national pride to a nation dominated by gang warfare. The core takeaway is that Haiti’s participation in the World Cup, even without a home venue, symbolizes a powerful message of hope and resilience for its people..