Moroccan Scotland slayer Salaheddine Bassir reckons Steve Clarke's side could pose a bigger threat to the Atlas Lions than Brazil.
The 2022 World Cup semi-finalists face the Brazilians in the other game in the group ahead of Scotland's clash with Haiti.
But former Lille and Deportivo La Coruna striker Bassir - who netted two goals against Scotland as they hammered Craig Brown's side 3-0 in their last match in the tournament 28 years ago in Saint Etienne - is full of respect for the Scots.
He said: "There is almost nothing between the Morocco and Brazil sides. We are no longer the underdogs. Look at the FIFA rankings. We are seventh, and Brazil are sixth.
"Brazil for me are currently going through a transitional phase based on the gradual renewal of its current generation. If you ignore their famous name, there is nothing to be afraid of.
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"The Selecao of today is very different from the team we played against in 1998. The technical differences are no longer what they were in the past. Our football team have made great leaps in recent years.
"Our team perfectly balances youthful energy with experience, based on our high technical qualities and we have gained a lot of experience in top European competitions.
"But I would point out that we are in a very tough group. I expect Scotland to provide as difficult a game as Brazil.
"They have built a squad for a few years now and they are packed with experience at the top level. Scotland have players in the very best leagues in Europe.
"I believe the result between Scotland and ourselves will be key to who gets out of the group."
