Haiti's Grenadiers celebrate World Cup qualification, fans shift from Brazil support

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 1, 2026, 7:10 AM

Last updated Jun 1, 2026

Haiti's Grenadiers celebrate World Cup qualification, fans shift from Brazil support
Summary

Haiti has qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 1974 and will begin its tournament in Group C, facing Brazil, Morocco, and Scotland. Fans are embracing their national team, moving away from their traditionally strong support for Brazil. Excitement is high in Haiti, with spontaneous soccer games occurring in the streets and fans expressing their hope for the team amidst the country's struggles with violence and hunger. The Grenadiers' first match is scheduled for June 19 at Philadelphia Stadium.

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Status Watch
  • Haiti's national team last qualified for the World Cup in 1974.
  • Haiti plays in Group C against Brazil, Morocco, and Scotland.
  • Fans are showing support through jersey purchases and community gatherings.
  • Haitians express hope for their team amid social challenges.
  • The Grenadiers' first match is on June 19 in Philadelphia.
Latest Updates
  • 7:10 AMYahoo SportsHaitians switch soccer allegiances from Brazil as 'Grenadiers' end World Cup drought
  • 7:10 AMAssociated PressHaitians switch soccer allegiances from Brazil as ‘Grenadiers’ end World Cup drought - AP News
What they're saying
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PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Soccer fans in Haiti have for decades gathered in front of televisions and radios to support Brazil in every World Cup. Haiti has qualified for the global tournament for the first time since 1974, and the excitement is brimming. Spontaneous soccer games are erupting on dusty lots while shirts emblazoned with the country’s team players are sold at a growing number of street corners.

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For decades, soccer fans in Haiti have gathered in front of televisions and radios to support Brazil in every World Cup. But not this year. Haiti's national team has qualified for the global tournament first time in more than half a century, and the excitemen…

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