Scotland, Morocco's World Cup Group Opponent, to Play Japan and Ivory Coast in March Friendlies

11 February 2026at19:30

The Scotland national football team continues to finalize its preparations for the 2026 World Cup finals, through a series of friendly matches aimed at enhancing the physical and tactical readiness of its players.

Scotland will kick off their preparatory matches by hosting Japan on Saturday, March 28, at Hampden Park. This will be a strong test against an Asian opponent known for its speed and tactical discipline.

Three days later, the team will travel south to England to face Ivory Coast at Everton's new Hill Dickinson Stadium. This encounter promises to be equally challenging against an African side that recently reached the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations.

These will be Scotland's final friendly appearances before a break, with the team set to return to action on May 30 against Curacao. The Scottish Football Association has described this match as the 'final farewell' before heading to the World Cup.

The Moroccan national team was drawn into Group C for the 2026 World Cup, alongside Scotland, Brazil, and Haiti. This group is considered one of the tournament's most prominent due to the strength of its competitors and the diversity of their playing styles.

Morocco will face Scotland on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Boston Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 23:00 GMT+1.

Q&A

What teams will Scotland play in their upcoming March friendlies?

Scotland will host Japan on March 28 at Hampden Park, followed by an away match against Ivory Coast on March 31 at Everton's new Hill Dickinson Stadium, as key preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

How do Scotland's friendly matches relate to Morocco's 2026 World Cup group?

Morocco is drawn into Group C for the 2026 World Cup alongside Scotland, Brazil, and Haiti. Scotland's friendlies are part of their preparation for this challenging group stage encounter.