Brazil 1-1 Morocco: Vinícius Levels on His 50th Cap as Saibari Stuns MetLife
Morocco led at half-time as Ismael Saibari's composed finish silenced the MetLife crowd, before Vinícius Júnior curled a brilliant equaliser on his landmark 50th Brazil cap — the five-time champions held on the biggest night of Group C.
Brazil's five-time champions were held to a 1-1 draw by Morocco in their 2026 World Cup Group C opener at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Saturday, as Ismael Saibari's composed 21st-minute goal was cancelled out by a brilliant Vinícius Júnior equaliser that marked his landmark 50th international cap.
Morocco arrived with a plan and executed it. Brahim Díaz, operating in a free role behind the strikers, threaded a precise through ball behind Brazil's defensive line and Saibari — arriving at pace — lifted a composed finish over goalkeeper Alisson to open the scoring. The goal capped a breathtaking opening spell from the Africans: Morocco registered 12 shots in the first half-hour alone, a tally surpassing the number Brazil had conceded in any single match across their previous six complete World Cup appearances.
Brazil's response came through their most dangerous individual. In the 32nd minute, Vinícius Júnior received a pass from Bruno Guimarães wide on the left, cut back onto his right foot, and curled a precise effort across goalkeeper Bounou and into the far corner. It was not only a fine goal but a personal landmark: the Real Madrid winger was celebrating his 50th cap for the Seleção, and he had announced it in the most emphatic style. The two sides were unable to be separated across the remaining hour, and the points were shared.
The match took place without Neymar. Coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed shortly before kick-off that Brazil's all-time leading scorer — who had been listed among the substitutes — would not play, as he continues to recover from the calf injury that has hung over his World Cup preparations. Ancelotti indicated he expected Neymar to be available for Brazil's second group fixture against Haiti.
The result is a warning shot for the favourites and a statement of intent from Morocco, who confirmed that their 2022 semi-final run was no freak. Both teams sit on one point at the top of Group C, with Scotland and Haiti to play their group opener later the same evening. The picture at the top of the group will be clearer by Sunday morning.
Sources: ESPN — Brazil vs Morocco LIVE: Vini Jr. scores stunning equaliser · FIFA — Brazil vs Morocco 1-1, First Stage · NBC Sports — Brazil vs Morocco live updates · ESPN — Neymar will be on bench but won't play, Ancelotti confirms
