Brazil couldn't break through Morocco's stubborn defence on Saturday. They settled for a 1-1 draw in their Group C opener at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Ismael Saibari put Morocco ahead in the 21st minute. His chipped finish was clinical and well-deserved after a strong opening performance.
Vinicius Junior levelled matters 11 minutes later with a brilliant strike. The Real Madrid winger collected a pass from Bruno Guimaraes, cut inside, and fired past goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Carlo Ancelotti's squad showed there's work ahead if they're to claim a sixth World Cup title. Brazil last won the tournament in 2002, more than two decades ago.
Ancelotti made history by becoming the first foreign coach to lead Brazil at a World Cup. The Italian took charge despite the team's disappointing fifth-place finish in South American qualifying.
Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi had told his players to show no fear. His team responded with confidence from kick-off and nearly stole the victory.
Brahim Diaz threaded a superb pass through to Saibari early in the first half. The PSV Eindhoven forward burst past Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhaes to score.
After Vinicius equalised, Brazil dominated large stretches of the match. Lucas Paqueta went close before halftime but couldn't find the net.
Bounou stood tall between Morocco's posts throughout. He denied Igor Thiago, Raphinha, and Danilo with impressive saves after the break.
Morocco's Nayef El Aynaoui created problems from long range in the second half. Alisson parried one effort, then blocked a follow-up from Ayoube Amaimouni.
Neymar's absence was felt in attack for Brazil. The all-time leading scorer remains out with a calf injury since 2023.
Former legends Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos, and Kaka watched from the stands. All three were part of Brazil's 2002 World Cup-winning squad.
Brazil haven't lost an opening match at the World Cup since 1934. That remarkable 92-year unbeaten streak in tournament openers continues.
Morocco are still searching for their first World Cup opening-match victory. The 2022 semi-finalists will feel they could've taken all three points.
Brazil face Haiti in their next Group C fixture. Morocco take on Scotland in their second match of the tournament.
The draw leaves both teams in respectable positions. But Brazil will need to improve if they're to reclaim World Cup glory.
