LIVE – Brazil v Morocco: World Cup 2026 commentary, updates, goals and stats

The 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered an early seismic shock as five-time champions Brazil were held to a surprising 1-1 draw by a resilient Morocco in their Group C opener at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey. The highly anticipated clash, kicking off on Saturday, June 13, saw the tournament favorites unable to break down the formidable 'Atlas Lions', signaling a potentially more open Group C than initially predicted. Morocco, fresh off their historic semi-final run in the 2022 World Cup and a controversial Africa Cup of Nations title earlier this year, showcased a disciplined defense and potent counter-attack, living up to their 'dark horse' reputation. Brazil, under newly appointed manager Carlo Ancelotti, struggled to convert their attacking flair, despite boasting stars like Vinícius Júnior, Raphinha, and a recently recalled Neymar. This draw underscores a shifting landscape in international football, where traditional powerhouses can no longer take victory for granted against rapidly evolving nations like Morocco. As the World Cup 2026 continues its expanded 48-team format across North America, both Brazil and Morocco now face crucial adjustments for their upcoming Group C fixtures. For the Seleção, the pressure mounts on Ancelotti to quickly integrate his star-studded squad and find a winning rhythm. Meanwhile, Morocco's draw against a titan like Brazil will only amplify expectations for their continued journey, forcing rivals to take their tactical prowess seriously in what promises to be an unpredictable tournament.