Brazil faced a tumultuous first half in their World Cup 2026 opener against a confident and aggressive Morocco. In search of a solution, coach Carlo Ancelotti turned to Vinicius Jr, whose dazzling skill sparked a revival for a struggling Brazilian side aiming for their sixth title.
The Brazilian midfield faltered under pressure, with Casemiro’s recent form overshadowed by the weight of expectation. Supported by a shaky defense, Vinicius Jr’s brilliance highlighted the core of this tournament’s storied team.
A striking shot from the left side of the penalty area met the top right corner of Bono’s net, igniting cheers of joy and relief. After a subpar pass from Bruno Guimaraes, Vinicius Jr adeptly controlled the ball and, despite the Moroccan players’ efforts, equalized for Brazil, amplifying Ancelotti’s quest for balance.
Vinicius Jr salvaged a point for Brazil in their World Cup opener (Reuters)
This campaign under Ancelotti, the first foreign manager of Brazil, embodies the mission of “rumo ao hexa,” or pursuing the sixth title, with echoes of their 1994 success resonating through the years. The parallels extend beyond the tournament’s host, as it has also been 24 years since Ronaldo led Brazil to glory.
Once known for their mesmerizing offensive play, Brazil’s flair has diminished, drawing comparisons to the 1994 team, which, though flawed, relied on the potent combination of Romario and Bebeto to cover their shortcomings and evolve through the competition. This year’s tournament, featuring 104 matches and 48 teams, offers a similar opportunity for growth.
While Neymar Jr may remain a wildcard, his effectiveness will be analyzed more closely if Brazil struggles this summer, as Romario once remarked, in a nation of 220 million coaches.
Ancelotti’s known reluctance to establish a “clear identity” became apparent against Morocco, highlighting that with Senegal next on the horizon, they must quickly solidify their approach if they hope to maintain status as favorites.
Carlo Ancelotti is Brazil’s first ever foreign manager (Getty)
Although Ancelotti has undeniable talent at his disposal, he emphasized the necessity of balance alongside skill, which remains a critical unanswered question as the tactical approach from Moroccan coach Mohamed Ouahbi proved a challenge.
Brazil’s vulnerabilities at full-back were stark, as Roger Ibanez was frequently targeted. The Brazilian crowd gasped as Bilal El Khannouss tested the defense repeatedly. Morocco’s dangerous forays were epitomized by Noussair Mazraoui’s unrelenting pressure, causing defensive pandemonium.
The Brazilian side was given a reprieve when a cut-back failed to convert into a goal, leaving the Selecao relieved.
Brazil’s wooden midfield were overrun by Morocco (Reuters)
Shortly after, Azzedine Ounahi created another opportunity, with Casemiro and Lucas Paqueta forced into desperate tackles, clearly showing Brazil’s discomfort.
Despite the Moroccan onslaught, Vinicius Jr continued to pose a threat as he outpaced Achraf Hakimi. However, Igor Thiago squandered a critical chance provided by the winger as he made his World Cup debut.
Morocco quickly took advantage of Brazil’s disorganization. Brahim Diaz’s precise ball to Ismael Saibari allowed him to lift a shot over Alisson Becker, giving Morocco a well-deserved lead.
Ismael Saibari gave Morocco a deserved lead (Reuters)
El Khannouss then exploited Brazil’s shaky structure again, but Hakimi misfired after charging into open space during another counter-attack—a worrisome trend for Ancelotti ahead of upcoming matches against Haiti and Scotland.
Morocco’s missed opportunities came back to haunt them when Vinicius Jr was able to score a crisp equalizer, alleviating some pressure for Brazil.
The second half did not replicate the first half’s intensity. Morocco began to falter, demonstrating that Brazil remains a threat as the tournament progresses.
Vinicius Jr’s speed has the potential to be a significant asset, especially in the sweltering conditions reaching 30°C in New Jersey. A notable counter-attack featured a pulled shot from Raphinha, who could form a formidable partnership with Vinicius reminiscent of the great Romario and Bebeto.
As the match drew to a close, Danilo missed a late chance, and El Aynaoui’s bending attempt was parried by Alisson, with Ayoube Amaimouni’s rebound creating a tense moment for Brazil. This marked Morocco’s only shots on goal from the 31st to the 99th minute. The points were shared, but Brazil’s search for equilibrium remains unresolved.