Vinicius Rescues Point for Brazil Against Morocco in World Cup Opener
Published June 14, 2026
Brazil kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Morocco in New Jersey, with Vinicius Junior netting a crucial equalizer for the five-time champions.
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Brazil began their quest for a record sixth FIFA World Cup title with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against African champions Morocco in their Group C opener. The highly anticipated match, held in New Jersey, saw the South American giants fall behind early before a moment of individual brilliance ensured they salvaged a point from what was a challenging start to the tournament.
Morocco, keen to make a statement in this expanded 48-team World Cup hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico, took the lead in the 21st minute. Ismael Saibari expertly found the back of the net, putting Brazil under immediate pressure. However, it was Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior who stepped up for Brazil, delivering a spectacular equalizer that leveled the score and prevented a shock opening defeat for Carlo Ancelotti's side.
The performance highlighted that Brazil, despite their formidable talent, may have significant work ahead if they are to end their 24-year World Cup drought. Ancelotti, the first foreign coach to lead Brazil at football's showpiece event, watched alongside Brazilian legends like Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos, and Kaka. The team's fifth-place finish in South American qualifying had already underscored the scale of the challenge facing the Italian manager as the tournament, running from June to July 2026, gets into full swing.