Brazil began their pursuit of a sixth World Cup title with a 1-1 draw against Morocco at MetLife Stadium as Ismael Saibari’s opener and Vinicius Junior’s equaliser ensured both sides shared the points in Group C.
Morocco made the sharper start and quickly put Carlo Ancelotti’s side under pressure. The Atlas Lions dominated possession in the opening stages and repeatedly targeted the Brazilian full-backs. Achraf Hakimi drove forward from defence, while Brahim Diaz found space between the lines and dictated Morocco’s attacks.
Brazil struggled to settle and Morocco took a deserved lead when Diaz split the Brazilian defence with a precise pass. Saibari raced through and calmly lifted the ball over Alisson to cap an impressive opening spell.
The five-time world champions offered little attacking threat before Vinicius produced a moment of individual quality. The Real Madrid forward drove at the Moroccan defence and fired into the roof of the net to level the score against the run of play.
Ancelotti reacted at half-time by replacing Roger Ibanez and Casemiro with Danilo and Fabinho. The changes improved Brazil’s balance. Bruno Guimaraes gained more control in midfield, while Vinicius and Raphinha began to find space in wide areas.
Brazil pushed Morocco back for much of the second half. Raphinha went close from inside the box and Luiz Henrique added energy after coming off the bench. However, Bono dealt confidently with the pressure and Morocco’s defence remained organised.
Mohamed Ouahbi responded with a series of late substitutions that slowed Brazil’s momentum. Morocco regained control during the closing stages and limited clear opportunities despite intense pressure from the Brazilian crowd.
Both teams searched for a winner during 10 minutes of stoppage time, but neither side found the decisive moment.
The result leaves Brazil still searching for a winning start to their World Cup campaign, while Morocco reinforce their reputation as one of the tournament’s most difficult opponents. For Ancelotti, the draw offered a reminder that Brazil’s route towards a sixth world title may prove far more complicated than many expected.
