"The result is not bad at all", coach Ancelotti said after the match at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey on 13/6. "No one wins the World Cup in just one match. For many reasons, the opening game might not go as planned. But in football, not everything is perfect. When that happens, you have to offer constructive criticism to improve the situation. This is just the beginning of this journey. We must continue, prepare well for the next match, advance through the group stage, and improve over time".

According to the Italian coach, Brazil played poorly in the first half, with inaccurate shots and a failure to replicate the effective coordination seen in recent friendly matches. However, he was pleased that the team fought until the end and recognized areas for improvement. "We need to strive for a more balanced team and a stronger attack", added the former Real Madrid tactician.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti during Brazil's 1-1 draw with Morocco in Group C of the 2026 World Cup, at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, US on 13/6. Photo: AP

The match between Brazil and Morocco was considered one of the most evenly contested in the group stage, as both national teams rank within the top 8 of FIFA. In their most recent encounter, a 2023 friendly, Morocco won 2-1. Morocco reached the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup and won the African championship this year, while Brazil exited in the quarter-finals of the tournament four years ago in Qatar.

Morocco started stronger, opening the scoring in the 21st minute with an exquisite chip from Ismael Saibari. Brazil quickly responded, equalizing in the 32nd minute after Vinicius broke through on the left wing and curled a shot into the top corner. For the remainder of the game, both teams played evenly. Brazil had only one other significant opportunity when Raphinha's low shot was saved by goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. Brazil finished the match with 54% possession, 8 shots, five of which were on target, compared to Morocco's 46% possession, 13 shots, and 4 on target.

"The criticism is directed at the entire team because they did not play well in the first half. You have to accept criticism when the team performs poorly", Ancelotti stated, addressing concerns about his starting lineup choices.

Saibari's opening goal in Brazil's 1-1 draw with Morocco.

Vinicius, who scored Brazil's equalizer, admitted facing difficulties against Morocco's defense. He commented, "We could not create many chances because Morocco defended very well. Other teams are also aiming for this. We must adapt to improve immediately".

According to the number 7 forward, after Morocco scored, coach Ancelotti changed the team's approach. He and his teammates were instructed to play more openly, control possession, and engage in more passing, moving away from a cautious counter-attacking style. This adjustment helped Brazil regain control of the game and equalize. "We need to analyze the match. It certainly has some positive aspects, but we must continue to improve. The next match is approaching, and we must win at all costs", Vinicius added.

Vinicius (yellow jersey, right) celebrates a goal in Brazil's draw with Morocco in their opening Group C match of the 2026 World Cup, US on 13/6. Photo: AP

Vinicius also participated in the 2022 World Cup, scoring one goal in Brazil's 4-1 victory over South Korea in the round of 16. Scoring in the opening match of this year's tournament signifies progress for the forward, who was runner-up for the 2024 Ballon d'Or award.

"At the last World Cup, I was very young. Now, I have more experience but also face more pressure. I am ready for everything. The pitch surface here is different, and the weather is very hot. We must adapt because things happen very quickly", Vinicius said.

The opening draw means Brazil and Morocco must intensify their efforts in the remaining two Group C matches against Haiti and Scotland. The 2026 World Cup features 48 teams divided into 12 groups. The top two teams from each group and the eight best third-place teams will advance to the round of 16.

Vinicius's equalizer in Brazil's 1-1 draw with Morocco.

Thanh Quy (according to Marca)