Few opening matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup carry as much intrigue as the clash between Morocco and Brazil on Saturday at the New York New Jersey Stadium. The two nations met at the World Cup for the first time since France 1998, when Brazil defeated Morocco 3-0 in the group stage on their way to the final. At the time, the gap between the two teams appeared significant. Nearly three decades later, the landscape has changed dramatically. ALSO READ: Mexico beat South Africa as World Cup 2026 kicks off Morocco arrives in the United States not as an underdog, but as one of the most respected teams in world football following its historic 4th place finish at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the best performance ever by an African nation at the tournament. The Lions of the Atlas have continued their rise since Qatar. In March 2023, they secured their first ever victory over Brazil, winning 2-1 in a friendly match in Tangier. That result served as a statement that Morocco’s World Cup run in 2022 was no accident and that the North Africans had joined football elite. Speaking ahead of Saturday match, Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi dismissed the idea that Brazil should be considered favourites. In a match like this, at a World Cup, there is no favourite. It's 50-50. The game will be decided by small details and efficiency in front of goal. We hope those details go our way. I think we did a good preparation and we’re ready for Brazil ALSO READ: World Cup 2026: Favourites, challengers and dark horses On the Brazilian side, all eyes will be on new head coach Carlo Ancelotti, who begins his World Cup campaign under intense scrutiny. Despite Brazil’s five World Cup titles, the squad is well aware of Morocco’s progress. Star forward Vinícius Júnior praised the African side's development. There is no doubt that Morocco has improved considerably. They prepare their matches very well and can compete with anyone. Football has evolved a lot, and Morocco is one of the teams that has contributed to that evolution, but we know our strengths and make what we need to win it. Team strengths and weaknesses: For Morocco, strength remains its defensive organisation and tactical discipline. The team is compact, hard to break down, and extremely dangerous in transition. ALSO READ: RDB extends business operating hours during FIFA World Cup However, their main weakness can be consistency in finishing chances. Against elite opponents, Morocco often creates limited opportunities, meaning efficiency in front of goal becomes crucial. Brazil's strength lies in individual talent and attacking creativity. With world-class wingers, technical and intelligent midfielders, and depth in attack, they can change a game in moments. Their experience in World Cup competitions and ability to control possession also remain major advantages. But defensively, Brazil can sometimes be vulnerable when exposed on the counterattack, especially against fast transitions. There is also pressure on new tactical structures under Ancelotti, which may take time to fully settle. Key players to watch: Morocco: Achraf Hakimi, Yassine Bounou, Brahim Diaz and Sofyan Amrabat, remain central figures, combining defensive solidity with creativity and leadership.
