Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior scored a brilliant first-half equalizer to rescue a lackluster Brazil side in a 1-1 draw against Morocco in their opening Group C match of the 2026 World Cup at MetLife Stadium on Saturday.
Morocco took an early lead through Ismael Saibari, who finished a well-weighted pass from Brahim Diaz that split the Brazilian defense after a dominant opening spell by the African side.
Vinicius Junior altered the course of the match midway through the first half.
He collected a pass from Bruno Guimaraes on the left wing, cut inside onto his right foot, and blasted a brilliant strike into the roof of the net past Moroccan goalkeeper Bono.
Ancelotti Apologizes for Poor Performance
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti, making his World Cup debut as a head coach at age 67, faced scrutiny over his 4-2-4 tactical system that left midfielders exposed to Moroccan counter-attacks.
“I am sorry we didn't play as well as we hoped,” Ancelotti said in his post-match press conference.
“It was a tough match. In the first half we were very unbalanced.
We did a bit better in the second half but we cannot lose heart.”
Ancelotti emphasized the need for improvement. “We have to have a more balanced team and we have to be more aggressive.
The result isn't bad. You don't win the World Cup in your first match.”
The Italian manager praised Vinicius Junior's impact. “He was very dangerous.
I think he has everything in his power to have a great World Cup.”
Vinicius Junior's Ambition and Critics' Views
Vinicius Junior expressed his motivation ahead of the tournament. “I am here to help Brazil get back to the top.
I want to try to write the history of the country and the national team.”
Former England captain Alan Shearer described Brazil's overall display as “ragged” to BBC Sport.
South American football expert Tim Vickery noted that individual quality saved Brazil from a historic opening defeat.
“Ideally you want the team to make the stars, here you have a case of the star saving the team.”
Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart praised Vinicius Junior's composure. “This is where Vinicius Jr comes into his own.
He cuts in, smashes it past Bono. What a moment.”
Brazil will face Haiti in Philadelphia on June 19, followed by Scotland in Miami on June 24 to conclude Group C.
