Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical prowess faced a stern test as Brazil began their 2026 World Cup campaign. Falling behind to a stunning goal from Ismael Saibari, the Brazil manager found himself reliant on Vinícius Júnior to prevent an embarrassing defeat in their first match.
Throughout a thrilling first half that could set a precedent for the tournament, Brazil struggled defensively, with Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães unable to contain Morocco’s strong midfield, anchored by the impressive teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi. Friday night witnessed a vibrant atmosphere at Times Square, filled with yellow and red jerseys as fans prepared for one of the most awaited group stage clashes. Ultimately, it was Júnior, often criticized for his international performances, who provided a moment of joy for Brazilian supporters.
The 25-year-old marked his 50th appearance for the national team with only his 10th goal. With Neymar sidelined due to a calf injury following his unexpected recall, Ancelotti understands that Brazil’s hopes for a sixth title hinge on Júnior’s form. Despite their undeniable talent, Brazil appears to be lacking in depth in key areas. Morocco, having made history as the first African team to reach the semi-finals in 2022, exploited these vulnerabilities effectively and nearly secured a win towards the end after a mishap by Alisson. Following some tactical adjustments at halftime, Brazil showed improvement, yet Ancelotti has a significant challenge ahead to ensure his squad becomes a genuine contender.
After being appointed in March, Mohamed Ouahbi took over as Morocco’s head coach, promising to build on the team’s success from Qatar. Bouaddi earned only his fourth senior cap in midfield shortly after opting to represent the Atlas Lions over France, showcasing potential far beyond his 18 years during the match.
Surprisingly, since their elimination from the last World Cup, more than 90 players have been called up to the Brazilian national team. Ancelotti has shown greater consistency in his selections since assuming the role last year. However, his choice to place Roger Ibañez at right-back raised eyebrows, given his usual position in central defense, and Morocco immediately targeted him.
Noussair Mazraoui advanced effectively from left-back, while Neil El Aynaoui’s attempt was blocked as Morocco surged forward early on. Brazil struggled to find their footing until Júnior created an opportunity on the left, finding Igor Thiago, who unfortunately misjudged his header.
In the intense New Jersey heat, Ancelotti remained on his feet throughout the first half, and his worst fears were realized when Brahim Díaz produced a moment of brilliance. Seemingly harmless in his own half, Díaz delivered a sensational pass that found Saibari, who deftly lobbed Alisson. It was a deserved lead for Morocco.
Things could have worsened for Brazil had Achraf Hakimi opted to pass to Díaz instead of shooting in the subsequent attack. Yet, just when Brazil seemed to be in trouble, Júnior stepped up, receiving a pass from Guimarães along the byline and firing a shot past Yassine Bounou from a tight angle, leaving El Aynaoui on the ground. The relief from the Brazilian fans was palpable.
Bounou had to stretch fully to tip Lucas Paqueta’s volley wide just before halftime, as Casemiro and Ibañez both received yellow cards. Ancelotti acknowledged a misjudgment in his lineup by substituting both players for the second half, bringing in Fabinho and Danilo. This change resulted in a more organized approach that pushed Morocco back into their defensive half. A quickly taken throw-in nearly caught the Moroccan defense off guard, with Bounou stopping Thiago’s shot from a narrow angle.
With half an hour remaining, Ancelotti introduced Manchester United’s Matheus Cunha, but Morocco continued to frustrate the Brazilian side. A triple substitution that ended Díaz’s participation suggested Ouahbi was content to hold onto a point, while Brazil displayed more urgency as the match neared its conclusion. Their best chance for a late winner fell to substitute Luis Henrique during a tense 10 minutes of stoppage time, but Bounou was equal to the task, leaving Ancelotti visibly frustrated. Perhaps international management is more challenging than it appears?
