Sport

Morocco hold Brazil 1-1 in their World Cup opener

A brilliant counter-attacking goal by Ismael Saibari had given Morocco an early lead before Vinicius Junior equalised for the Brazilians.

Newstimehub

Newstimehub

14 Jun, 2026

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Brazil were held to a 1-1 draw by Morocco in their World Cup Group C opener on Saturday, with Vinicius Jr’s fine strike cancelling out a goal from Ismael Saibari.

Morocco made the brighter start and took the lead in the 21st minute when Saibari finished a swift counter-attack, racing through the middle to convert Brahim Diaz’s through ball.

They controlled much of the first half and threatened again before Brazil levelled through a moment of quality from Vinicius, who cut in from the left and curled a right-footed shot into the top corner in the 32nd minute.

Brazil improved after halftime following several substitutions by coach Carlo Ancelotti, pressing higher and enjoying more possession. However, they struggled to break down Morocco’s low block as both sides earned a point.