2026 World Cup: Saibari stunner earns Morocco a draw against Brazil
Morocco began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with an impressive 1-1 draw against five-time champions Brazil, producing a disciplined and confident performance in a gripping Group C encounter on Saturday.
The Atlas Lions showed little sign of intimidation against one of football’s traditional powerhouses and were rewarded with a valuable point after matching Brazil for long spells of the contest.
Brazil created the first clear opening of the match in the 14th minute when striker Igor Thiago met a lofted delivery inside the penalty area. However, his header drifted wide of the post, allowing Morocco an early escape.
Seven minutes later, Morocco struck with a moment of brilliance.
Midfielder Ismael Saibari stunned the Brazilian defence when he collected the ball just outside the penalty area and spotted goalkeeper Alisson Becker off his line. Displaying remarkable composure, Saibari lifted a perfectly weighted lob over the advancing goalkeeper and into the net to hand Morocco a surprise lead. Brahim Díaz was credited with the assist.
The goal sparked an immediate response from Brazil, who gradually began to assert themselves in possession.
Their equaliser arrived in the 32nd minute through Vinícius Júnior. The Real Madrid forward showcased his pace and skill with a dazzling run before firing an unstoppable effort into the top-right corner, leaving Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou with no chance.
Brazil almost completed the turnaround before half-time. Lucas Paquetá found himself unmarked inside the box in stoppage time, but Bono reacted superbly to produce a vital save and ensure the sides went into the break level.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Brazil pushing for a winner and Morocco remaining organised and dangerous on the counter-attack.
Igor Thiago came close again in the 58th minute after racing onto a defence-splitting pass, but Bono once more proved Morocco’s hero, diving brilliantly to push away the striker’s effort.
Both managers introduced fresh legs as the match entered its final stages, yet neither side could find the decisive breakthrough despite a lively finish.
Morocco’s resilience and tactical discipline ultimately earned them a deserved point against one of the tournament favourites, while Brazil were left frustrated after failing to turn their dominance in possession into victory.
The result leaves Group C finely balanced after the opening round of fixtures. Morocco will next face Scotland on 19 June, while Brazil take on Haiti as both teams look to strengthen their chances of reaching the knockout stage.
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