Vinícius Jr. scores equalizer as Brazil draw 1-1 with Morocco in World Cup opener

Carlo Ancelotti's debut as Brazil's coach in a World Cup ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw against Morocco. The match, held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, saw a large Brazilian contingent among the 80,663 spectators. Morocco, the surprise semifinalist of the 2022 World Cup, took the lead in the 21st minute through Ismael Saibari, who finished a swift counter-attack after a fine pass from Brahim Díaz. Saibari skillfully chipped the ball over the advancing Alisson Becker.

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Basically, the story of the wristband is, when we went to meet with the Prime Minister, he offered us this wristband. They made sure that it was a wristband that we could wear on the pitch. It has all the specifics for us to be able to enter the pitch with it, with the name of all the players plus the special name of Diogo Jota. He let us choose if we wanted to use it or not, how (we use it), during the day or during the match. We received it with a lot of affection and we chose to use it.

Brazil, seeking a record sixth World Cup title, struggled to find their rhythm early on. However, Vinícius Jr., a former Real Madrid player under Ancelotti, rescued the Seleção in the 32nd minute. He received the ball from Bruno Guimarães, cut inside, and fired a powerful shot into the far corner past Yassine Bounou. This goal belatedly injected life into a lackluster Brazilian performance.

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I wouldn't say we're the favourites, we have great quality and capacity to advance far in the tournament. We know the right path is to be humble and play the right game. We have the talent, all we need is the technical and tactical aspects (to come together).

Despite improvements in the second half, including more possession and higher pressing after substitutions, Brazil found it difficult to break down Morocco's defense. Lucas Paquetá's acrobatic effort was saved before halftime, and Bounou made further saves from Igor Thiago and Danilo in the second half. Morocco nearly snatched a late winner when Alisson had to react sharply to a long-range effort and a follow-up.

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The weather will affect how we play, but that is for everybody, not just for us. With varying temperatures in the U.S., Mexico and Canada, it is very difficult. But it is the World Cup and there are no excuses, no conditions that can keep us from giving everything for the national team.

Neymar, recovering from a calf injury, watched from the bench. Brazil will face Haiti next, while Morocco plays Scotland. The draw means Brazil remains unbeaten in World Cup openers since 1934, but significant work lies ahead for Ancelotti's squad.

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It's always been a dream, I've not wished to do anything else. To an extent I've always followed what my father did. This is what I always wanted to do, I've always dreamed of this and achieved many great things. I want to achieve winning this title as well.