Brazil held to 1-1 draw by Morocco in World Cup 2026 opener, Ancelotti under pressure

Brazil was held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by a fearless Morocco in their 2026 World Cup opener, putting manager Carlo Ancelotti under immediate pressure. Morocco took a 21st-minute lead through Ismael Saibari before a brilliant individual goal from Vinícius Júnior leveled the score. The five-time champions' disjointed performance, which saw veteran Casemiro substituted at halftime, has raised serious questions about their title chances.

Brazil 1-1 draw Morocco

• ▪Brazil and Morocco drew 1-1 in their 2026 World Cup Group C opening match at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
• ▪Brazil's Vinícius Júnior scored an equalizer in the 32nd minute with a powerful individual goal.
• ▪Morocco's Ismael Saibari scored the opening goal in the 21st minute after an assist from Brahim Diaz.

Brazil's tactical weaknesses

• ▪Ancelotti acknowledged that the Brazilian team was "anxious" and that "nerves were all over the place" during the match.
• ▪Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti is facing criticism from media and fans after the team's "terrible" and "appalling" performance.
• ▪Ancelotti made four of five possible substitutions before the 65th minute, including replacing Casemiro and Roger Ibanez at halftime.

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