Morocco, the first African team ever to reach the semi-finals in 2022, have earned their deserved 1-1 draw against Brazil in their opening World Cup match played Saturday at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
The Atlas Lions opened the score in the 21st minute when Ismael Saibari lifted the ball over the Alisson Becker from outside the area following a lapse in communication between the goalkeeper and his defenders. Morocco continued to dominate and, by the 30th minute, had registered 12 shots – the most Brazil have faced in a World Cup match since their encounter with Mexico in 2018.
For large portions of a thrilling first half, the five-time champions found themselves chasing shadows as Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães struggled to contain a Morocco midfield anchored by the outstanding teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi, one of Morocco’s standout performers in central midfield during the game.
As Mohamed Ouahbi’s squad failed to capitalize on their advantage, Brazil drew level 13 minutes before the break through Vinicius. He collected a ball from Bruno Guimaraes inside the area, cut inside, and unleashed a fierce strike past Yassine Bounou.
Ouahbi said he wanted to win today’s Group C opener and go beyond the semi-final. “It’s one point but we wanted more. One is good enough but we will improve,” he added, noting that the match was high level.
Analysts say Morocco have what it takes to go deep at this World Cup, and their Coach knows exactly what they need to improve for the upcoming games.
After their draw, both Morocco and Brazil gain a point each, while Scotland take the lead of their Group C following their 1-0 win over Haiti. It is the Scots’ first World Cup victory since 1990.
On June 19, Morocco face Scotland at Boston Stadium, while Brazil take on Haiti at Philadelphia Stadium on June 20.
