Brazil and Morocco share spoils in 1-1 draw at World Cup Group C opener
Brazil failed to overcome a resilient Morocco side as they were held to a 1-1 draw in their Group C World Cup opener at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
The match began at midnight local time and quickly became an open contest. Morocco, playing without injured defenders Nayef Aguerd and Ebde Ezzalzouli, started brightly and took the lead in the 21st minute through Ismael Saibari.
Brazil respond before the break
Brazil, already missing veteran forward Neymar due to injury, equalised just 11 minutes later. Vinicius Junior, the Real Madrid attacker, found the net to make it 1-1 after 32 minutes. The first half ended with the score level and both sides having shown offensive intent.
Goalless second half
Neither team could produce a winner after the interval. Brazil controlled more of the ball but struggled to break down a well-organised Moroccan defence. Morocco, the surprise semi-finalists at the 2022 World Cup, held firm despite the absence of key players in both defence and attack.
Timeline of the match
- Kickoff at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford
- Ismael Saibari scores for Morocco (0-1)
- Vinicius Junior equalises for Brazil (1-1)
The draw leaves both teams with one point from their opening Group C fixture. Brazil, a five-time champion, will see this as a missed opportunity, while Morocco will take confidence from neutralising a favourite despite a depleted squad.
