The match's aftermath was dominated by discussions surrounding contentious refereeing decisions. Haiti, playing in their first World Cup since 1974, felt they were denied at least one clear penalty in the second half. A key moment arose in the 77th minute when midfielder Jean-Ricner Bellegarde's long-range shot seemed to hit center-back Grant Hanley's lower forearm before exiting the field.

Center-back Grant Hanley's handball incident during Scotland's victory over Haiti at Boston, Massachusetts, USA, on 13/6, World Cup 2026 Group C opening match. *Screenshot*

Algerian referee Mustapha Ghorbal promptly allowed play to continue, and, to the surprise of many, the video assistant referee (VAR) did not request a review of the incident on the pitchside monitor.

On social media, Haiti fans and neutral observers alike voiced their outrage, contending that Hanley's handball in the penalty area warranted a penalty for Haiti, according to reports from the Scottish Sun.

John McGinn's only goal against Haiti.

Further fueling the controversy, some questioned the lack of multiple replay angles for the incident. Numerous comments on social media described the referee's decision as "robbed of a victory" or "daylight robbery." The controversy continued as Haiti had another penalty appeal for a handball by a Scotland player in the box, which was also denied. These two consecutive incidents left the Caribbean team feeling unfairly treated, particularly given their competitive performance against a supposedly stronger opponent.

A Scotland defender's handball in the penalty area. *Screenshot*

Another contentious moment arose in the closing minutes when midfielder Kenny McLean, in an attempt to win the ball, delivered a high challenge that struck striker Josue Casimir's knee. Despite the Haiti player falling to the ground in pain, the referee did not show a red card, and VAR remained silent. Post-match, many spectators felt McLean was lucky to remain on the pitch, with some suggesting his studs-up challenge warranted a direct red card. "Scotland won 1-0, but there were two uncalled penalties and a potential red card incident overlooked," a fan commented on social media, as quoted by the Irish Sun.

Haiti coach Sebastien Migne echoed the sentiments, stating post-match that his team deserved a penalty. The French coach remarked, "Many are talking about Scotland's potential handballs. If the penalty for Bellegarde's shot had been given, it would have been a fair decision."

John McGinn's deflected shot midway through the first half secured Scotland a 1-0 victory over Haiti, marking their first World Cup win since 1990. Scotland created few clear chances throughout the match. Beyond McGinn's goal, their most significant offensive moment was Scott McTominay's shot that struck the post earlier. For the majority of the game, the Scottish side concentrated on defending their slender lead.

This result placed them at the top of Group C, following Brazil's draw with Morocco. This victory gives Scotland three crucial points and a strong position in the race for the knockout stages. They are scheduled to play Morocco in their second group match, followed by a final group stage encounter with Brazil.

Hoang An, compiled