Morocco hold Brazil to 1-1 draw in World Cup opener

Morocco opened their 2026 World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Brazil on Saturday, taking a point from one of Group C’s strongest fixtures after a disciplined performance at New York/New Jersey Stadium.

The Atlas Lions started with more control and pressed Brazil high in the opening stages. Neil El Aynaoui had an early chance blocked after Morocco broke through the left, while Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Diaz repeatedly pushed the Brazilian defence back.

Morocco were rewarded in the 21st minute when Ismael Saibari put Mohamed Ouahbi’s side ahead. The PSV midfielder finished calmly to give Morocco a deserved lead after a strong start.

Brazil responded in the 32nd minute through Vinicius Junior, who found space on the left and beat Yassine Bounou with a powerful finish after combining with Bruno Guimaraes.

The second half brought a different pattern. Brazil took more of the ball and forced Morocco deeper, with Igor Thiago and Raphinha involved in several dangerous moves. Bounou was called into action more than once, including after a quick Brazilian attack early in the half.

Morocco gradually steadied the match near the final quarter, with Saibari again involved before being substituted late. Brazil pushed for a winner in stoppage time, but Morocco held their defensive shape and avoided the late collapse.

The draw gives Morocco a solid start in a group that also includes Scotland and Haiti. It also confirms that the Atlas Lions, semi-finalists in 2022, remain capable of competing with the tournament’s top-ranked sides.

Morocco will now turn to their second group match against Scotland, while Brazil continue their campaign under Carlo Ancelotti still looking for a first win.