Five-time World Cup winners Brazil were made to work hard by an energetic Morocco side in their Group C opener, with Vinícius Júnior producing a moment of brilliance after Ismael Saibari had given the Africans the lead with a clever finish over Alisson.

Vinícius Júnior struck a spectacular equaliser as Brazil were held to a 1-1 draw by an impressive Morocco team in their World Cup Group C clash.

In the more manageable New York conditions, Morocco made a flying start when Brahim Díaz collected a loose ball in midfield and played a precise pass through the heart of Brazil’s defence, splitting Gabriel and Marquinhos, into the path of Ismael Saibari.

The midfielder showed composure, calmly facing Alisson before lifting the ball delicately over the Brazilian goalkeeper to give Morocco a deserved early advantage. The finish reflected the confidence and quality of a side still regarded as one of Africa’s strongest performers on the World Cup stage.

Brazil, often criticised for relying on individual brilliance, needed exactly that to respond against a Moroccan team that looked more cohesive for much of the contest. Morocco impressed with their energy in the first half and defensive organisation in the second, suggesting they could be serious contenders if they maintain that balance.

The two sides, both ranked among the top teams in world football, met in one of the standout fixtures of the opening round of the expanded 48-team tournament, and there was little to separate them over the 90 minutes.

Elsewhere in Group C, Scotland capitalised on the dropped points by edging Haiti 1-0 in their second group fixture.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted concern over his team’s start, telling FIFA he was “a little worried” after a slow opening period.

“We didn’t start very well. I’m a little worried. We lost a lot of duels and possession, but we improved in the second half of a difficult match because Morocco is a good team,” he said.

“In the first half, we had difficulty getting out of the press and we could have had more control.

“Satisfied? Not really. I expected a better start, but things can happen. Now I’m going to focus on the next game.”