FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil’s start in the FIFA World Cup 2026 was not as per expectations. The five-time world champion team had to face a tough challenge against Morocco in its first match. The result of this Group C match played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey ended in a 1-1 draw.
Morocco applied pressure from the beginning
The Moroccan team looked aggressive from the beginning of the match. The African team did not give the Brazilian players a chance to play freely and maintained constant pressure. On the other hand, the Brazilian team appeared to be finding its rhythm in the initial minutes.
Saibari gave Morocco the lead
Morocco got success in the 21st minute of the match. Taking advantage of a mistake made by Brazilian midfielder Lucas Paqueta, Morocco launched a sharp counter-attack. On a brilliant pass from Brahim Diaz, Ismail Saibari made an excellent move and sent the ball into the goal. With this goal, Morocco took a 1-0 lead. After the goal, there was tremendous enthusiasm among the Moroccan supporters present in the stadium, while the Brazilian fans looked surprised.
Vinicius Junior made a great comeback
However, Brazil did not lag behind for long. In the 32nd minute of the match, star player Vinicius Junior equalized for his team. Vinicius, making great coordination with Bruno Guimaraes, moved forward from the left side and made a brilliant shot, sending the ball into the corner of the goal post. Moroccan goalkeeper Yassin Bono failed to stop this shot and the score became 1-1. This was also the 10th goal of Vinicius Junior’s international career.
Alison Baker avoided defeat
Morocco had a great chance to win in the final moments of the match, but Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson Becker made a brilliant save to save the team from defeat. If Alisson had not made this save, Brazil would have had to face defeat in its very first match. With the draw both teams achieved one point each. Morocco made it clear with its performance that it has the capability to challenge any big team in this World Cup.