SportFootballWorld Cup 2026BRAZIL 1-1 MOROCCO: Carlo Ancelotti's men struggled to get the measure of their African opponents in New Jersey only for star forward Vinicius Jr to level matters with a brilliant strike01:06, 14 Jun 2026Updated 01:06, 14 Jun 2026Brazil fought back to secure a 1-1 draw with Morocco in their first group game of the 2026 World Cup in New Jersey.‌Ismael Saibari netted midway through the first-half to give the African side a richly deserved lead after a brilliant start. Vinicius Jr ensured his country went into the break level with a stunning strike.‌Both sides continued to trade blows throughout the game, with Morocco going close to what would have been a stunning late win. But in the end, each had to be content with a stalemate‌The draw sees both sides claim a point in their opening World Cup game, with some presentable games to come against both Scotland and Haiti.JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football's Facebook pageGiven the World Cup pedigree that Brazil have, it was a surprise to see Carlo Ancelotti's men wither in the New Jersey heat early on. Morocco enjoyed an electric start to the game, with Arsenal's Gabriel required to clear Neil El Aynaoui's effort from Noussair Mazraoui's cutback.‌Achraf Hakimi also went close as the African nation enjoyed a sensational start. Morocco's beginning to the game was so impressive that their fans inside the MetLife Stadium started 'oles' just 12 minutes into the match.Igor Thiago should have halted Morocco's momentum but failed to make contact with Vinicius Jr's cross.And that would come back to bite the South Americans as Saibari latched onto Brahim Diaz's inch-perfect pass and lifted a brilliant finish over Alisson. Hakimi then went close to doubling Morocco's lead after a barnstorming run.‌Brazil were on the ropes and needed something special - and one man was certainly capable of it: Vinicius Jr. The Real Madrid winger received the ball on the left, cut inside and fired a stunning effort beyond Yassine Bounou.The Moroccan goalkeeper made sure to keep Brazil at bay in the second-half as they hunted a winning goal, Raphinha's low effort just about stopped.‌Alisson also had to be alert late on to make an eye-catching double save to deny what would be a stunning winner.The result leaves Group C finely poised, with Ancelotti's side set to take on Haiti in their second game, while Morocco entertain Scotland.Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Article continues belowChoose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Brazil football teamMorocco football teamFIFA World CupWorld Cup 2026Carlo Ancelotti