Brazil needed a moment of brilliance from Vinícius Júnior to avoid a shock defeat as the five-time world champions were held to a 1-1 draw by Morocco in their opening Group C match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
Morocco stunned Brazil in the 21st minute through Ismael Saibari, who capitalised on a defensive mix-up between Alisson Becker, Gabriel Magalhães and Marquinhos before calmly lifting the ball over the advancing goalkeeper from outside the penalty area.
The goal marked a historic moment for the Atlas Lions, becoming the first time Morocco had scored against South American opposition at the FIFA World Cup.
The African champions dominated large spells of the first half and constantly troubled Brazil’s defence with their intensity and quick transitions.
By the half-hour mark, Morocco had already recorded 12 shots, the most Brazil have faced in a World Cup match since their clash against Mexico in 2018.
However, Brazil found their equaliser through Vinícius Júnior in the 32nd minute.
The Real Madrid forward, making his 50th appearance for the Selecao, received a pass from Bruno Guimarães inside the box, cut onto his right foot and fired a powerful strike beyond Yassine Bounou.
Lucas Paquetá nearly completed the turnaround for Brazil before half-time, but his acrobatic effort was brilliantly tipped away by Bounou.
Brazil improved after the restart as Carlo Ancelotti’s side began to control possession and create more attacking opportunities.
Raphinha came closest to finding a winner when he narrowly failed to connect with a dangerous low cross from Bruno Guimarães across the face of goal.
Despite Brazil’s second-half pressure, Morocco remained disciplined defensively and held firm to secure a valuable point against one of the tournament favourites.
The result extends Brazil’s remarkable unbeaten record in opening World Cup matches, a run stretching back 92 years, while Morocco continue their search for a first-ever victory in an opening game at the competition.
Vinícius Júnior was named Player of the Match following his influential display and crucial equalising goal.
Match Details
2026 FIFA World Cup – Group C
Brazil 1-1 Morocco
Venue: New York New Jersey Stadium
Attendance: 80,663
Goalscorers
Morocco: Ismael Saibari (21’)
Brazil: Vinícius Júnior (32’)
Assists
Morocco: Brahim Díaz
Brazil: Bruno Guimarães
Morocco will face Scotland at Boston Stadium on June 19, while Brazil take on Haiti at Philadelphia Stadium on June 20.
