Morocco vs Haiti — Prediction & Preview

Morocco enters this Group C encounter as clear favorites, with a projected win probability of 73.8% and an expected scoreline of 1.8–0.7. This is a mismatch on paper: Morocco qualified for the 2022 World Cup semifinals and brings continental pedigree, while Haiti is making a World Cup return after decades away. The model sees a comfortable Morocco victory, though Haiti's resilience could keep the match competitive enough to avoid a blowout.

Mohamed Ouahbi's Morocco will likely deploy a structured 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 shape, anchored by the defensive solidity of Nayef Aguerd and Noussair Mazraoui in the back line, with Achraf Hakimi providing attacking thrust from the right flank. The midfield will be organized around Sofyan Amrabat's ball-winning and distribution, likely supported by Azzedine Ounahi or Bilal El Khannouss in deeper roles. Sébastien Migné's Haiti will operate in a more compact 4-4-2 or 5-4-1 block, prioritizing defensive shape to absorb pressure; their wing play will rely on wider players like Derrick Etienne Jr. to offer counter-attacking outlets. Morocco's pressing will be direct and coordinated in the attacking third, looking to force turnovers, while Haiti will sit deep and aim to hit on transition. Set pieces may be an avenue for Haiti—with Ricardo Adé and Duke Lacroix offering height at the back—while Morocco's superior technical execution in open play should dominate possession.

For Morocco: Achraf Hakimi's ability to drive down the right and deliver crosses will be crucial; expect him to be involved in most attacking sequences. Sofyan Amrabat anchors the midfield and will be tasked with breaking up Haiti's counter-play while initiating Morocco's build-up. Ayoub El Kaabi, a seasoned forward, will lead the line and occupy defenders, creating space for supporting attackers like Abde Ezzalzouli or Brahim Díaz to operate inside. For Haiti: Johny Placide, the veteran goalkeeper, will face sustained pressure and must remain composed during spells of Moroccan dominance. Duckens Nazon, the aging forward, represents Haiti's primary outlet for direct play and must be intelligent in his positioning to create space for deeper runners. Leverton Pierre in midfield will be tasked with shielding the defense and attempting to disrupt Morocco's rhythm through positioning and work rate.