Brazil begin World Cup campaign without Neymar as Morocco seek to repeat semi-final run

Injury-hit Brazil

Brazil enter the 2026 World Cup missing several key players. Neymar, the Selecao's all-time leading scorer, is ruled out of the opening Group C match after suffering a setback in his recovery from injury. Manager Carlo Ancelotti is also without Eder Militao, Rodrygo and Estevao, all of whom were lost to pre-tournament problems. The absentees significantly weaken the side that many had fancied for a deep run in the tournament, which is being staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Morocco's dark horse credentials

Morocco arrive as one of the most intriguing teams in the competition. The Atlas Lions reached the semi-finals in 2022, exceeding all expectations. More recently they were controversially awarded the Africa Cup of Nations title off the pitch after chaotic scenes marred the final against Senegal. The side is now led by Mohamed Ouahbi, who took over after the highly regarded Walid Regrarui resigned. Despite the coaching change, Morocco are seen as a potential threat to any opponent.

Tournament context

The Brazil-Morocco clash is one of the early fixtures on a day that also features Scotland against Haiti later in Boston. The sprawling World Cup, the first to be held across three host nations, places Brazil among the favourites, but Ancelotti's depleted squad faces an immediate test of its depth. The outcome of Group C could hinge on how the Selecao cope without their talisman and whether Morocco can replicate the form that carried them to the last four four years ago.