KABUL (Pajhwok): Vinícius Júnior produced a brilliant equaliser as Brazil were held to a 1-1 draw by Morocco in their opening World Cup Group C match in New Jersey, making a shaky start to their bid for a sixth world title.
Ismael Saibari gave Morocco a 21st-minute lead with a clever chipped finish after breaking through the Brazilian defence following a pass from Brahim Díaz, according to Al Jazeera.
Brazil, chasing a record-extending sixth World Cup crown, responded 11 minutes later when Vinícius cut inside from the left side of the penalty area and fired a powerful shot into the far corner past goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
The result leaves Carlo Ancelotti’s side under early pressure in the tournament, having already shown signs of inconsistency after finishing fifth in South American qualifying. Brazil are aiming to end a 24-year wait for another World Cup title.
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