Brazil Stumbles to 1-1 Draw with Morocco in World Cup Opener

Brazil opened Group G of the 2026 World Cup with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Morocco at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, in a match that began overnight Saturday to Sunday. Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil came in as the favorite despite being without injured star Neymar, while Morocco arrived after its historic run at the previous World Cup.

Morocco looked sharper from the start and created several dangerous chances early. In the 20th minute, Brahim Diaz threaded a precise pass to Ismail Saibari, who lifted the ball over goalkeeper Alisson Becker to make it 1-0.

Brazil responded 11 minutes later. Vinicius Junior, after a give-and-go with Bruno Guimarães, drove into the box and finished past the keeper to level the score at 1-1. Even after the equalizer, Brazil never fully took control, as Morocco continued to play confidently, attack with purpose and hold possession for long stretches.

Both sides made a series of substitutions in the second half in search of a winner, but the defenses and goalkeepers held firm. Brazil’s result was a somewhat disappointing start, while Morocco left with a point that could prove important later and further reinforced the sense that it can again be one of the tournament’s surprise teams.