Vinicius earns Brazil point as Morocco hold World Cup favourites

• Morocco took the lead through Ismael Saibari after a fine assist from Brahim Diaz
• Vinicius Jr equalised with a stunning strike as Brazil responded quickly
• Goalkeepers Yassine Bounou and Alisson produced key saves in a 1-1 draw

Brazil and Morocco shared the points after a 1-1 draw in their opening Group C match at the 2026 World Cup in New York New Jersey.

Morocco, the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final, stunned the five-time champions when Brahim Diaz played a perfectly weighted through ball for Ismael Saibari, who lifted his finish beyond Alisson.

Brazil responded almost immediately through Vinicius Jr.

Fed by Bruno Guimaraes on the left side of the penalty area, the forward cut inside and unleashed a powerful right-footed strike that flew past Yassine Bounou to level the score.

Both sides created further opportunities before the break.

Lucas Paqueta came close to putting Brazil ahead with an acrobatic effort, but Bounou reacted well to push the ball away.

The Morocco goalkeeper remained busy in the second half and was again called into action after Vinicius cut the ball back for Raphinha.

Alisson also made an important contribution late in the game. The Brazil goalkeeper denied Neil El Aynaoui with a diving save before quickly smothering Ayoube Amaimouni’s follow-up effort in stoppage time.

Neither side could find a winner as the match finished level, leaving Brazil and Morocco with a point apiece from their opening Group C fixture.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.

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