Brazil's national team had an inauspicious start to the 2026 World Cup, managing only one point against Morocco in their Group C opener in New Jersey. Vinicius Junior was the hero for the yellow-and-green side with a 32nd-minute equalizer that leveled the score at 1-1.
Morocco took a surprise lead in the 21st minute through Ismael Saibari. The PSV Eindhoven forward received a deft pass from Brahim Diaz, sprinted past central defenders Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhaes, then finished with a delicate chip over goalkeeper Alisson Becker.
Brazil found the equalizer just 11 minutes later. Vinicius Junior collected a pass from Bruno Guimaraes on the left edge of the penalty area, cut the ball onto his right foot, and fired a precise shot into the far corner, leaving goalkeeper Yassine Bounou with no chance.
Carlo Ancelotti's side struggled for fluidity throughout much of the match. Brazil are pursuing a sixth World Cup title, 24 years after their last triumph in 2002. Legends Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos, and Kaka were in the stands at New York New Jersey Stadium to support their former team.
Coach Ancelotti is the first foreign manager to lead Brazil at a World Cup. Italy are absent from this tournament, but Brazil are grappling with problems of their own: Neymar, the nation's all-time leading scorer, is still recovering from a calf injury and has not played for the national team since 2023.
After the equalizer, Brazil created several other chances. Lucas Paqueta attempted an audacious bicycle kick, but Bounou saved. In the second half, Bounou denied Igor Thiago after a quick Brazil free kick. Raphinha and Danilo both shot straight at the Moroccan goalkeeper as Brazil pushed for a winner.
Morocco almost snatched a decisive goal in the final minute when Alisson saved a long-range effort from Neil El Aynaoui, then reacted quickly to block Chemsdine Talbi's follow-up.
Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi urged his players not to fear Brazil, and that message proved effective as the African side played with confidence. Morocco reached the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup.
In their next matches, Brazil will face underdog Haiti while Morocco take on Scotland.
