2026 World Cup: Brazil Paid The Price For A Sluggish Start Against Morocco -Vinicius

Brazil star Vinícius Júnior has faulted the team’s sluggish opening performance against Morocco in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Recall that Brazil were held to a 1-1 draw against Morocco in Saturday’s Group C game at the at MetLife Stadium.

The 2022 World Cup semi finalists controlled the early phases and opened the scoring in the 21st minute with a deft chip from Ismael Saibari.

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However, Vinícius spared the Seleção from an opening match defeat by exchanging passes with Bruno Guimarães and burying a spectacular right-footed strike in the 32nd minute.

Reacting after the game, the Real Madrid star stated that Brazil paid the price for a sluggish start against a Morocco side that had been told by their coach to approach the match with no fear.

“We started on a really bad note,” Vinicius told FIFA.com.

“We conceded that first goal and after that happens it’s hard to get it going, you know, it’s the first match, it’s always hard.

“But we’ve got to improve and continue to grow because the competition is only but starting. This is the World Cup, there are no easy matches.

“But I don’t think there’s a lot to say now. I think we really have to improve.”

Meanwhile, Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has called for patience as Brazil make slow World Cup start.

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“I think this was a tough match, especially in the beginning. I think the team was a bit anxious and nerves were all over the place,” said Ancelotti.

“We didn’t play well, but we cannot lose heart. This is the first match in the World Cup and we can’t… think the team is doing perfectly from the get-go.

“This was the result we had. It wasn’t bad, but we’ll keep picking up from the second match on. You dont win a World Cup based on your first match.”