In a highly anticipated Group C clash in New York last night, Morocco made the brighter start and stunned the five-time world champions with an impressive opening goal. Midfielder Ismael Saibari capitalised on a perfectly weighted pass from Brahim Diaz, breaking through Brazil’s defence before calmly lifting the ball over goalkeeper Alisson to give the Atlas Lions an early lead.
Morocco’s energetic display reflected the confidence of a side that reached the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup and remains Africa’s most successful nation at the tournament. The North Africans pressed aggressively and looked the more cohesive team during much of the first half.
Brazil, however, needed only a moment of brilliance to restore parity. Vinicius Junior, one of the Seleção’s biggest attacking threats, combined neatly with Bruno Guimaraes before cutting inside and curling a superb strike into the top corner. The spectacular finish brought Carlo Ancelotti’s side level against the run of play.
The second half remained competitive, with both teams creating opportunities but neither able to find a decisive breakthrough. Morocco defended resolutely while Brazil searched for a winner through their array of attacking talent.
The draw leaves both sides with a point from their opening match in what could prove to be one of the tournament’s most competitive groups. It was also the only opening-round meeting between two top-10 ranked teams in the expanded 48-nation World Cup.
Elsewhere in Group C, Scotland moved to the top of the standings with a 1-0 victory over Haiti, taking advantage of the points dropped by both Brazil and Morocco in their opening encounter. Four matches were played on Saturday across Groups B, C and D: Switzerland 1-1 Qatar, Australia 2-0 Türkiye, and Scotland 1-0 Haiti.
