Vinícius Júnior came to Brazil's rescue as the five-time world champions opened their 2026 World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Morocco at the New York New Jersey Stadium. The Real Madrid forward equalised after Ismael Saibari's stunning opener, sparing manager Carlo Ancelotti from an embarrassing defeat.
Ancelotti's side struggles in first half
Brazil struggled to contain Morocco's midfield, anchored by 18-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi, as Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães were overrun. The Atlas Lions took a deserved lead when Brahim Díaz's superb pass found Saibari, who lobbed Alisson. Brazil improved after half-time tactical changes, but Ancelotti has work to do.
Vinícius Júnior's moment of brilliance
With Brazil on the ropes, Vinícius Júnior picked up a pass from Guimarães on the byline, left El Aynaoui on the ground, and slammed past Yassine Bounou from a tight angle. It was his 10th goal for the Seleção on his 50th appearance.
Morocco's strong performance
Morocco, the first African side to reach a World Cup semi-final in 2022, looked dangerous throughout. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who replaced Walid Regragui in March, saw his side almost win it late after an Alisson error. Bouaddi impressed on his fourth senior cap.
Ancelotti's selection gamble
Ancelotti's decision to deploy Roger Ibañez at right-back backfired, with Morocco targeting the Al Ahly player. Both Ibañez and Casemiro were replaced at half-time by Fabinho and Danilo, leading to a more structured system. Despite late chances for substitutes Matheus Cunha and Luis Henrique, Brazil could not find a winner.
