Vinicius Jr. goal earns Brazil draw against Morocco in World Cup opener

Vinicius Jr.'s individual brilliance salvaged a point for Brazil in their uncertain 2026 World Cup opener, a 1-1 draw against a dominant Morocco in New Jersey. The five-time champions struggled to impose themselves against the African side, who took a 21st-minute lead through Ismael Saibari.

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Vinicius Jr.’s individual efforts lift Brazil’s struggle in team’s 2026 tournament opener against Africa champions Morocco.

Saibari's clever scoop over Alisson Becker followed a fine pass from Brahim Diaz, with the Moroccan forward outpacing defenders Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhaes. The goal highlighted Brazil's defensive frailties and the challenge facing coach Carlo Ancelotti, who is the first foreign manager to lead the Selecao.

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Vinicius Junior scored a brilliant equaliser for Brazil in a 1-1 draw with Morocco as the five-time World Cup winners made an uncertain start to the tournament in New Jersey.

Vinicius Jr. produced a moment of magic to level the score 11 minutes later, receiving the ball from Bruno Guimaraes, cutting inside, and firing into the far corner. Despite the equalizer, Brazil's performance, which saw further efforts saved by Morocco's Yassine Bounou, indicated that ending their 24-year World Cup title drought will require considerable improvement.

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Ismael Saibari ran through to give Morocco a 21st-minute lead with a clever scoop in the Group C opener on Saturday, but Vinicius produced a moment of magic to ensure Brazil came away with a point.