MOROCCO AND BRAZIL CANCEL EACH OTHER OUT IN WORLD CUP OPENER.

Brazil and Morocco played out a 1-1 draw in their FIFA World Cup Group C opener
in New Jersey, with both coaches left reflecting on a match of fine margins and
contrasting halves.

Morocco struck first through Ismael Saibari in the 21st minute after a quick counter-
attack, before Vinicius Jr responded nine minutes later with a curling finish to level
the contest.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted his side struggled to find rhythm early on.

“We did not play well, a very unbalanced team, we lost several balls, and we have to
do better,” he said. “I am not disappointed, and I am not satisfied either. You don’t
win a World Cup based on your first match.”

He added that Brazil improved after changes in the second half, but could not break
down Morocco’s defensive structure.

As for Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi, he praised his team’s bravery and
discipline against the five-time champions.

“We are happy. We would have wanted to win, but I am not sad,” he said. “We were
bold enough to play and ask for the ball under pressure. That is a great quality.”

Ouahbi also highlighted the impact of Morocco’s supporters inside the stadium.
“I could hear them very loudly. Even if it was only 20 percent, it felt like more,” he
said.

Both teams now sit on one point in Group C, with Brazil set to face Haiti next, while
Morocco prepares for their second group match against Scotland.