The 2026 World Cup Group C action continues as Brazil step onto the pitch shortly after Morocco moved to the top of the group following their victory over Scotland.

On paper, Brazil have a golden opportunity to leapfrog Morocco immediately. Haiti, who were defeated by Scotland in their first World Cup match since 1974, are still chasing their first-ever point at the finals. A result against Brazil would be a monumental upset for the Grenadiers, but one man in the centre of the field could play an important role in shaping the outcome.

Today’s second Group C fixture between Brazil and Haiti will be officiated by Spanish referee Alejandro Hernandez Hernandez. The 43-year-old, known for his extensive experience in La Liga, has been a FIFA-listed referee since 2014 and is widely considered one of Spain’s and Europe’s top officials.

Hernandez has been part of the La Liga refereeing panel since 2012, where he has overseen numerous high-profile matches. The World Cup in 2026 marks his second appearance at the tournament. He previously served as a video assistant referee (VAR) during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, including the infamous quarter-final clash between the Netherlands and Argentina, often referred to as the ‘Battle of Lusail.’

During the 2025–26 La Liga season, Hernandez officiated 19 matches, issuing 102 yellow cards and six straight red cards, meaning he sent a player off roughly every 285 minutes. He also awarded penalties at a rate of more than one per two matches. However, his approach was notably more restrained in the Champions League, where he officiated five matches, showing just one yellow card per game and awarding a single penalty – for PSV against Liverpool in November.

For the Brazil vs Haiti fixture in Philadelphia, Hernandez will be supported by assistant referees Jose Enrique Naranjo Perez and Diego Sanchez Rojo, both fellow Spaniards. The fourth official for the match is Sandro Scharer from Switzerland, while the video assistant referee (VAR) role will be handled by Carlos del Cerro Grande, also from Spain.

Brazil’s clash with Haiti offers both sides a chance to make a statement in Group C, with the referee team bringing substantial international experience to ensure fair play in what could be a high-intensity encounter.