Neymar’s Absence Felt as Brazil Rally to Hold Morocco to 1-1 Draw

The five-time champions needed a stunning Vinícius Júnior strike to cancel out Ismael Saibari’s early chip, as Morocco proved a formidable opponent at the MetLife Stadium

Brazil opened their 2026 World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Morocco at the MetLife Stadium in New York, a result that exposed the five-time champions’ vulnerability without the injured Neymar and showcased the Atlas Lions’ growing quality on the global stage.

Morocco struck first in the 20th minute, capitalising on an early Brazilian mistake. Brahim Díaz played in Ismael Saibari, who chipped a clever shot over Alisson Becker to give the African side a surprise lead. The goal stunned the Brazilian supporters in attendance and highlighted the defensive lapses that plagued the Selecao throughout the opening half.

Brazil responded 11 minutes later. Bruno Guimarães delivered a precise pass to Vinícius Júnior, who curled a sensational strike into the top corner, leaving Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou with no chance. The equaliser restored some composure, but Brazil struggled to break down a disciplined Moroccan defence for the remainder of the match.

Morocco finished with 13 shots, four on target, while Brazil managed eight attempts with five on target. Possession was nearly evenly split, with Brazil holding 54 percent to Morocco’s 46 percent. Both sides finished with identical passing accuracy, Brazil at 87 percent and Morocco at 88 percent.

Brazilian midfielder Casemiro and defender Ibañez received yellow cards, while Morocco kept their discipline with none. Moroccan keeper Bounou required extensive medical treatment in the 84th minute after an accidental collision with Raphinha but managed to finish the match.

An analysis by Accra Street Journal noted that Neymar’s absence due to a calf injury was evident in Brazil’s lack of creative incision against a well-organised Moroccan backline. The result leaves Group C wide open, with both teams on one point. Brazil will need to improve their attacking cohesion before facing their remaining group opponents, while Morocco will take significant confidence from holding the five-time champions to a draw.

Source: Accra Street Journal