Kraken becomes first crypto exchange to sponsor the FIFA World Cup as Brazil and Morocco kick off Group C

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway, and crypto already has a seat at the table. Kraken secured a deal as the Official Crypto Exchange Supporter of the tournament on June 9, becoming the first exchange in history to partner with FIFA’s marquee event.

Four days later, 80,663 fans packed MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, to watch Brazil and Morocco split the points 1-1 in their Group C opener. Morocco’s Ismael Saibari struck first in the 21st minute before Vinícius Júnior leveled the score in the 32nd.

What happened on the pitch

Morocco came out aggressive. Saibari’s goal gave the Atlas Lions an early lead and set the tone for a side that reached the semifinals at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Brazil’s Vinícius Júnior equalized 11 minutes after falling behind.

Group C also features Haiti and Scotland, meaning both Brazil and Morocco will expect to collect maximum points from their remaining fixtures.