The Brazilian team began its participation in the 2026 World Cup with more questions than certainties. The team led by Carlo Ancelotti drew 1-1 against a solid Morocco in the opening match of Group C, a result that showed Canarinha's difficulties in imposing conditions against one of the most competitive teams on the international scene.

An individual flash by Vinícius Júnior avoided a major setback for the South Americans at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where the Africans once again demonstrated that their outstanding performance in Qatar 2022 was far from a coincidence.

Morocco surprised Brazil from the start

The team led by Mohamed Ouahbi executed an effective tactical approach that completely neutralized Brazil for much of the first half.

With a populated midfield and constant pressure, the Moroccans limited the offensive generation of figures like Lucas Paquetá, Casemiro and Vinícius Júnior himself, who was barely able to intervene in the first minutes.

The reward came in the 21st minute, when Brahim Díaz filtered a precise pass for Ismael Saibari, who took advantage of the Brazilian defensive errors to beat Alisson Becker and open the scoring.

Vinícius appeared when Brazil needed him most

When Morocco dominated the match and seemed closer to the second goal, the figure of Vinícius Júnior appeared.

The Real Madrid attacker took the ball near the area, left his marker behind and took a powerful cross shot that was impossible for Yassine Bono, sealing the tie in the 32nd minute.

It was Brazil's first shot on goal and it ended up becoming the goal that kept the South American squad alive.

Carlo Ancelotti's debut left several doubts

Carlo Ancelotti's debut in a World Cup was marked by striking lineup decisions.

The Italian coach opted for Douglas Santos and Roger Ibáñez on the sides, leaving Danilo and Alex Sandro on the bench, while Igor Thiago appeared as an offensive reference ahead of Matheus Cunha.

The modifications did not work and Brazil constantly suffered in defense, especially in the sectors where Achraf Hakimi, Brahim Díaz and Azzedine Ounahi appeared.

Neymar watched from outside as figures filled the stands

Absent due to a calf injury that has been going on since May, Neymar followed the match from the dugout.

The match was also attended by prominent world sports personalities, including Tom Brady, as well as football legends such as Zinedine Zidane, Bebeto, Cafú and Dunga.

Brazil reacted, but failed to complete the comeback

The second half showed a more aggressive version of Brazil. The additions of Danilo, Fabinho, Luiz Henrique and Matheus Cunha helped the South American team gain meters and control the ball for longer.

Raphinha, Bruno Guimarães and Vinícius Júnior generated the clearest chances to break the deadlock, although the Moroccan defense resisted with order and discipline.

In the final minutes, both teams had opportunities to win, but the scoreboard no longer moved.

How is Group C of the 2026 World Cup?

The tie leaves Brazil and Morocco with one point at the start of Group C of the 2026 World Cup.

The next day will be key for the aspirations of both teams. The Brazilian team will face Haiti, while Morocco will seek to take another step towards qualification when they face Scotland.

The debut left a clear conclusion: the Brazilian team still has a lot of room for improvement if it wants to be a protagonist in the fight for the world title.