Brazil's World Cup attack: Vinícius, Raphinha, Igor Thiago to start against Morocco

Brazil is set to kick off their 2026 World Cup campaign against Morocco with a potent attacking trio. Coach Carlo Ancelotti has opted for Vinícius Júnior, Raphinha, and Igor Thiago to spearhead the offense, with Lucas Paquetá operating in the crucial attacking midfield role. This marks Ancelotti's debut as a head coach in a World Cup. The defensive setup will feature Alisson in goal, protected by a backline comprising Douglas Santos, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, and Roger Ibáñez. The midfield will be anchored by Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães, supporting Paquetá's creative duties. The inclusion of Douglas Santos, Roger Ibáñez, and Igor Thiago in the starting eleven represents a surprise for some observers, with Thiago seemingly earning the nod over Matheus Cunha. The match, held at the Metlife Stadium in New Jersey, will open Group C play, which also includes Scotland and Haiti. The referee for this highly anticipated clash between the five-time champions and the 2022 World Cup semifinalists will be Slovenia's Slavko Vincic.