News Focus
- Vinicius Jr scores a stunning goal to rescue a 1-1 draw for Brazil against Morocco in Group C
- Carlo Ancelotti apologises after his team produce a disappointing display in his first World Cup match as manager
- The five-time champions avoid their first opening-game defeat since 1934 but look second best for long periods
- Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr reaches 10 goals for his country with his strike in New Jersey
- Brazil must improve quickly with matches against Haiti and Scotland coming next in the group stage
Vinicius Jr proved why he is Brazil’s most important player with a moment of magic that saved his country from embarrassment. The Real Madrid forward scored a brilliant equalizer to earn a 1-1 draw against Morocco in their World Cup opener at the New Jersey stadium.
Before the tournament, Vinicius Jr promised he was not chasing individual awards. “I am here to help Brazil get back to the top,” he said. He kept his word when his team needed him most. Brazil were losing 1-0 and playing poorly when Vinicius received the ball inside the penalty area. He cut inside from the left and fired a powerful shot into the roof of the net.
This was Brazil’s first match of the tournament, but they did not look like five-time world champions. Morocco controlled the game and took the lead through Ismael Saibari. The African side created more chances and looked fitter and sharper.
Carlo Ancelotti, who is managing at his first World Cup at age 67, had to make changes at half-time. He replaced the ageing Casemiro and defender Roger Ibanez. The Italian coach later apologised to the fans for the poor performance. “I am sorry we didn’t play as well as we hoped,” he said. “We have to do better. We must be more balanced and more aggressive.”
Football experts criticised Brazil’s display. Former England captain Alan Shearer called it “ragged”. Ex-Chelsea star Gus Poyet said he was surprised by Brazil’s technical mistakes. “They were missing simple passes,” he told BBC Sport. However, expert Tim Vickery warned that Brazil are dangerous because they can win even when they play badly.
Brazil have not won the World Cup since 2002. Their qualifying campaign was difficult, with six defeats in 18 games. This result raises questions about whether they can end their 24-year wait for the trophy. They will face Haiti in Philadelphia on 19 June and Scotland in Miami on 24 June.
For Vinicius Jr, this was his 10th goal for Brazil. He hopes this tournament will make him a legend like Pele and Ronaldo. “I want to write the history of this country,” he said. “We must do everything to win.”