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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