World Cup 2026 Brazil Held by Morocco as Vinícius Rescues Point

BRAZIL · WORLD CUP

Carlo Ancelotti’s first World Cup match in charge of Brazil brought more questions than answers — until a single flash of Vinícius Júnior brilliance rescued a point against a sharp Morocco.

World Cup 2026 Brazil rescued by Vinícius

Brazil began their World Cup with a 1-1 draw against Morocco at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. It was a result that flattered the five-time champions on a difficult opening night.

Carlo Ancelotti, the first foreign coach to lead Brazil at a World Cup, watched his side chase the game for long spells. Only a moment of magic from Vinícius Júnior salvaged a point.

The draw still extended a remarkable record. Brazil have not lost a World Cup opening match since 1934, a run that now stretches more than ninety years.

Morocco’s bright start

The 2022 semi-finalists picked up where they left off, pressing Brazil’s right side and dominating the early exchanges. They took the lead in the 21st minute through Ismael Saibari.

A slick Brahim Díaz through ball split the Brazilian centre-backs, and Saibari chipped a calm finish over the onrushing Alisson. By the half-hour mark, Morocco had already registered twelve shots.

It was the kind of start that exposed Brazil’s nerves under a new system. For long stretches, the Atlas Lions looked the more coherent and confident team.

It was among the most shots Brazil had faced in a World Cup match in years. Morocco’s blend of pace and composure made them look every bit a knockout-round side.

Vinícius lights it up

Brazil’s response came from their most dangerous attacker. On 32 minutes, Vinícius Júnior collected a pass from Bruno Guimarães, cut inside off the left and curled a fierce shot into the top corner.

It was a goal worthy of settling any contest, scored on a milestone fiftieth cap. The strike, his tenth for the national team, drew Brazil level against the run of play.

For all Brazil’s struggles, the goal was a reminder of the talent at Ancelotti’s disposal. When Vinícius is in this mood, the Seleção remain a threat to anyone.

Ancelotti’s selection questions

Without the injured Neymar and Wesley, Ancelotti handed a start to Igor Thiago up front, but the striker missed a presentable header. Brazil’s makeshift defence struggled to contain Achraf Hakimi’s surges.

Casemiro and Roger Ibañez were both booked in the first half and replaced at the break. The double change steadied the side, yet Brazil rarely looked fluent in attack after the interval.

Morocco kept probing and almost won it late on. Alisson produced a stretching double save deep in stoppage time to preserve the draw.

What the draw means

Both teams leave Group C with a point apiece after a meeting of two of the tournament’s top-ranked sides. Morocco’s wait for a first win in a World Cup opener goes on.

For Brazil, the 24-year wait since their last title carries fresh doubts after a laboured display. Ancelotti has work to do before the knockout rounds come into view.

Brazil return to action against Haiti in Philadelphia on June 20. Morocco face Scotland in the Boston area on June 19.

Why it matters

Brazil arrived at this World Cup outside the bookmakers’ top picks, and the opener did little to quiet the sceptics. The gap between their attacking talent and their defensive balance was plain to see.

Yet a point and a Vinícius masterpiece are something to build on. For supporters across the region, the Seleção remain box office, even when the football is far from perfect.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the score in World Cup 2026 Brazil vs Morocco?

The match finished 1-1 at MetLife Stadium. Ismael Saibari scored for Morocco and Vinícius Júnior equalised for Brazil.

Did Brazil win their opening game?

No, Brazil drew 1-1. They have still not lost a World Cup opener since 1934, but they did not win this one.

Who scored for Brazil against Morocco?

Vinícius Júnior scored Brazil’s goal in the 32nd minute. It was a curling finish from the edge of the area on his fiftieth cap.

How did Morocco perform?

Morocco were excellent, especially early, with twelve shots inside the first half-hour. They led through Saibari and pushed for a winner late on.

Who do Brazil play next?

Brazil face Haiti in Philadelphia on June 20, then close Group C against Scotland. Morocco meet Scotland on June 19.