By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
Brazil needed a moment of brilliance from Vinicius Junior to avoid an opening defeat at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Scotland marked their return to the global stage with a hard-fought victory over Haiti.
The five-time world champions were held to a 1-1 draw by an impressive Morocco side in New Jersey after Ismael Saibari stunned Brazil with the opening goal in the 21st minute.
The North Africans dominated large spells of the contest before Vinicius rescued Carlo Ancelotti’s side with a superb solo effort in the 32nd minute.
Despite improved play after the break, Brazil could not find a winner, leaving both teams with a point in Group C and preserving the Seleção’s long-standing unbeaten record in World Cup opening matches.
Elsewhere, Scotland celebrated their first World Cup victory in 36 years with a tense 1-0 win over Haiti in Boston.
John McGinn proved the difference, netting the decisive goal in the 28th minute to hand Steve Clarke’s men a winning return after a 28-year absence from the tournament.
Although Scotland struggled to impose themselves and survived several nervy moments against a spirited Haitian side, they held firm to claim all three points and move to the top of Group C.
The results leave Scotland leading the group with three points, while Brazil and Morocco sit level on one point apiece ahead of the next round of fixtures.
