Brazil held by Morocco in 1-1 draw
Seeking a record sixth World Cup title, Brazil struggled to impose themselves for long periods against a confident Moroccan side and were unable to find a winner
Brazil were held to a 1-1 draw by Morocco in their opening Group C match of the 2026 World Cup at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday, as Carlo Ancelotti's first World Cup game in charge ended without a victory.
Morocco, the surprise semifinalists at the 2022 World Cup, produced an assured display and took the lead in the 21st minute through Ismael Saibari, reports Al Jazeera.
Saibari latched onto a pass from Brahim Diaz before lifting a chipped finish over Brazil goalkeeper Alisson Becker to put Morocco ahead.
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Brazil responded 11 minutes later when Vinicius Junior brought the five-time champions level. The forward cut inside from the left and fired a shot into the far corner to make it 1-1.
Seeking a record sixth World Cup title, Brazil struggled to impose themselves for long periods against a confident Moroccan side and were unable to find a winner.
The match marked the World Cup debut of Ancelotti, the first foreign coach to lead Brazil at the tournament. Despite the draw, Ancelotti said his squad, which was missing the injured Neymar, remained capable of competing with any team in the expanded competition.
Morocco, encouraged by coach Mohamed Ouahbi to play without fear, started brightly and continued to threaten throughout the contest.
They came close to securing all three points in the closing stages, but Alisson preserved the draw with a sharp double save.
Among those watching from the stands were former Brazil greats Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos and Kaka.
Brazil will face Haiti in their next Group C match, while Morocco will take on Scotland.
