Morocco underlined their growing reputation on the global stage by holding five-time champions Brazil to a pulsating 1-1 draw in their opening Group C
Morocco underlined their growing reputation on the global stage by holding five-time champions Brazil to a pulsating 1-1 draw in their opening Group C match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The result earned the Atlas Lions a valuable point against one of the tournament favorites and continued their impressive record against elite opposition.
The North Africans struck first in the 21st minute when attacker Ismael Saibari capped a swift attacking move with a composed finish past Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson. Morocco dominated large spells of the opening half, with their energetic midfield and disciplined pressing causing problems for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
Brazil responded through star winger Vinícius Júnior, who produced a moment of brilliance in the 32nd minute. After exchanging passes with Bruno Guimarães, the Real Madrid forward cut inside and unleashed a powerful strike beyond Yassine Bounou to level the score and rescue the Seleção from an uncomfortable position.
Both teams pushed for a winner after the break, but resolute defending and impressive goalkeeping ensured the scores remained level. The draw leaves Group C finely poised, with Morocco taking confidence from a performance that showed they can once again challenge the world’s best, while Brazil will seek improvements ahead of their next fixture after an opening display that exposed some tactical concerns.
Brazil faces Haiti next while Morocco comes up against Scotland in Group C.
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