Brazil and Morocco played out a 1-1 draw in their opening Group C fixture at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, as both sides began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaigns on level terms.
Ismael Saibari put Morocco ahead in the 21st minute with a chip over Alisson after running through the Brazilian defence. Vinícius Júnior levelled for Brazil on 32 minutes. That is how it stayed.
Both sides finish matchday 1 on one point. Scotland, who beat Haiti 1-0 in the group’s other game, sit top on three points.
How the Goals Went In
Saibari’s opener was the moment of the first half. The PSV Eindhoven midfielder got between two defenders, held his composure and chipped Alisson with a finish that arced perfectly into the net. Morocco’s bench celebrated with some force. It was a goal built on direct running and a clear read of Alisson’s positioning.
Brazil’s equaliser came through Vinícius Júnior in the 32nd minute. He took the ball, drove through space and finished to make it 1-1. The response came quickly enough to prevent Morocco building on their lead.
The game was close throughout. Morocco had 14 shots, Brazil 12. On target: Brazil five, Morocco four. Alisson made a late double save to preserve Brazil’s point as Morocco pushed for a winner in the final minutes.
Saibari’s Role
Saibari’s goal was only part of his contribution. He applied 100 pressures during the match, the most by any player in a single game at the 2026 World Cup so far. His work rate was the engine behind Morocco’s performance: relentless, high-tempo, and effective enough to unsettle Brazil’s backline for long periods.
What It Means
Group C is now balanced. Two heavyweights on one point each, Scotland unexpectedly at the top on three. Brazil’s remaining fixtures are Haiti on June 19 and Scotland on June 24. Morocco face Scotland on June 19 before a final group match against Haiti.
Brazil have enough quality to come through the group. The same applies to Morocco. But neither can afford a slip. Scotland’s three-point cushion changes the calculation for everyone below them.
Looking Ahead
Morocco vs Scotland on June 19 is the first major test of the new standings. For Morocco, it is a must-not-lose: a defeat would leave them on one point with Haiti to come, and their qualification in serious doubt.
For Brazil, the June 19 match against Haiti brings with it an expectation of three points. After that, the June 24 fixture against Scotland at a venue to be confirmed is the defining match of the group.
Saibari announced himself to a global audience in this opening game. For Brazil, Alisson’s late saves are a reminder that this group will not be easy.
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