Brazil, out to end their 24-year quest for an unprecedented sixth FIFA World Cup title, extended their staggering 92-year streak of never losing an opening match at the tournament. But only just. A spirited Morocco performance saw Brazil held to a 1-1 draw in the Group C curtain-raiser at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with the five-time champions left with plenty to ponder.Brazil's forward #07 Vinicius Junior celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the 2026 World Cup Group C football match between Brazil and Morocco (AFP)The reigning African champions, who came into the game on the back of a five-match winning streak, started on the front foot, dominating possession and creating the better chances early on. Their bright start was rewarded in the 22nd minute when Ismael Saibari finished off a swift counterattack, racing through the middle to convert Brahim Diaz's perfectly weighted through ball.Morocco controlled much of the first half, but Brazil hit back through a moment of individual brilliance from Vinicius Junior, who had looked largely anonymous until then. The Real Madrid star cut in from the left, squared up Achraf Hakimi, beat the Moroccan talisman, and curled a sensational right-footed effort into the top corner in the 32nd minute.Brazil improved after half-time following several substitutions from coach Carlo Ancelotti, pressing higher and enjoying more possession. However, they struggled to break down Morocco's disciplined low block as both sides settled for a point. Raphinha had Brazil's best chance of the second half, but could only direct his close-range effort straight at Yassine Bounou in the Moroccan goal.