Morocco Hold Five-Time Champions Brazil to a 1-1 Draw in FIFA World Cup 2026

In a thrilling encounter at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Morocco held Brazil to a 1-1 draw in their first match of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The five-time champions were pushed to the limit and had to rely on a brilliant late save from goalkeeper Alisson to avoid defeat.

Morocco took the lead in the 21st minute through a brilliant counter-attack. After a mistake by Lucas Paqueta, Brahim Diaz played a superb through ball to Ismael Saibari, who calmly chipped the ball over Alisson to make it 1-0.

Brazil equalised in the 32nd minute when Vinicius Junior produced a moment of magic. He combined beautifully with Bruno Guimaraes before smashing a powerful right-footed shot into the corner, leaving goalkeeper Yassine Bounou with no chance. It was Vinicius’s 10th international goal.

The second half was end-to-end. Morocco continued to threaten and had a golden chance in injury time. However, Alisson made an incredible save to deny Ayoub Amal, ensuring Brazil escaped with a point.

Brazil were without their star forward Neymar, who is still recovering from an ankle injury. Coach Carlo Ancelotti’s side showed moments of brilliance but struggled to break down a well-organised Moroccan defence.

This result is a big boost for Morocco, who reached the semi-finals in the previous World Cup. For Brazil, it raises questions about their attacking form without Neymar, but they maintain their proud record of not losing an opening World Cup match since 1934.

Brazil will now prepare to face tougher challenges in the group stage, while Morocco will look to build on this impressive performance.