Vinicius rescues Brazil point in draw with Morocco

NEW JERSEY: Brazil opened their World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Morocco on Saturday, with Vinicius Junior cancelling out Ismael Saibari's first-half goal in Group C at MetLife Stadium.

Morocco, who reached the semi-finals in 2022, made the stronger start in what both reports described as one of the standout first-round fixtures. After early pressure that included threatening moments from Achraf Hakimi, Neil El Aynaoui and Bilal El Khannouss, they went ahead in the 21st minute. Saibari ran onto a pass from Brahim Diaz, got beyond Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhaes, and finished with a chipped effort over Alisson Becker.

Brazil, chasing a sixth World Cup title and their first since 2002, levelled 11 minutes later through Vinicius. The Real Madrid forward took Bruno Guimaraes' pass on the left side of the penalty area, shifted onto his right foot and drove his shot into the far corner beyond Yassine Bounou.

The equaliser lifted a Brazil side that had looked unsettled in the opening stages. Lucas Paqueta then went close before the break, but Bounou reacted to keep out his acrobatic effort.

Brazil improved after halftime and created further openings as they searched for a winner. Bounou saved from Igor Thiago after a quick throw-in caught Morocco off guard, while Raphinha and Danilo also tested the goalkeeper. Midfielder Fabinho and defender Danilo were introduced for Casemiro and Roger Ibanez after a difficult first half, helping Brazil gain more control. The same report said Brazil later came close through Matheus Cunha, while a 78th-minute chance fell to Raphinha from a Vinicius cross.

Morocco remained dangerous and nearly claimed victory late on. Neil El Aynaoui struck from distance, forcing Alisson to parry, before he reacted again to block the follow-up from Ayoube Amaimouni.

Ancelotti sees nerves in Brazil display

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti said his side did not begin well and pointed to nervousness in the opening half. He has taken charge with Brazil attempting to end a 24-year title drought, becoming the first foreign coach to lead the national team at a World Cup. Neymar was unavailable for the opener as he continues to recover from a calf injury, having not played for Brazil since 2023.