Vinicius Jr saved Brazil from their first opening World Cup defeat since 1934, scoring a stunning solo goal to earn a 1-1 draw against Morocco at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Wednesday.
Morocco struck first. Ismael Saibari lifted the ball over goalkeeper Alisson Becker in the 21st minute following a defensive miscommunication — the first time an African side had ever scored against South American opposition at a World Cup. The Moroccan side dominated the first half, registering 12 shots by the 30th minute, the most Brazil had faced in a World Cup match since 2018.
But Vinicius had other ideas. On his 50th appearance for the Selecao, he collected a pass from Bruno Guimaraes, cut inside, and fired a fierce strike past Yassine Bounou to level 13 minutes before half-time. The second half produced few clear chances, with Raphinha coming closest to a winner but failing to connect with a low cross at the far post.
Watching from the stands were Ronaldo, Kaka, and Roberto Carlos — heroes of Brazil’s last World Cup triumph in 2002. Carlo Ancelotti, the first foreign manager to lead Brazil at a World Cup, will have been far from satisfied with the overall display despite the point.
Brazil’s 92-year unbeaten record in World Cup openers survives.
Next up: Brazil face Haiti on 20 June, while Morocco take on Scotland on 19 June.
