NEW YORK (Web Desk) — Five-time world champions Brazil were held to a 1-1 draw by Morocco in their opening FIFA World Cup match on Saturday, while Scotland celebrated their return to the tournament after 28 years with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Haiti.
In one of the most anticipated matches of the day at MetLife Stadium, Morocco shocked Brazil by taking the lead in the 21st minute. Ismael Saibari finished brilliantly with a clever chip after breaking through the Brazilian defence.
Brazil responded quickly through star forward Vinicius Junior, who produced a moment of brilliance in the 32nd minute. Cutting in from the left wing, he unleashed a powerful strike to level the score and rescue a point for his side in the Group C clash.
The draw highlighted areas of concern for Brazil, who are aiming to win a record sixth World Cup title, their first since 2002. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted his team struggled with nerves during the opening stages.
“It was a difficult match, especially at the beginning,” Ancelotti said. “The players were anxious and we did not play our best football. However, it is only the first game of the tournament and there is still a long way to go.”
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In the other Group C match, Scotland marked their first World Cup appearance since 1998 with a narrow victory over Haiti at Gillette Stadium near Boston.
Backed by thousands of travelling supporters known as the “Tartan Army,” Scotland started brightly and came close to scoring when Scott McTominay struck the post in the 17th minute.
The breakthrough arrived in the 28th minute when John McGinn’s deflected effort found its way past Haiti goalkeeper Johny Placide. Scotland could not add to their lead but defended resolutely to secure all three points.
“It was a must-win game and we won it,” Scotland manager Steve Clarke said after the match. Scotland will next face Morocco in a crucial Group C encounter.
Earlier in Group B, Qatar earned the first World Cup point in their history after drawing 1-1 with Switzerland in Santa Clara, California.
Switzerland went ahead through Breel Embolo’s first-half penalty and looked set for victory before a dramatic late twist. Swiss defender Miro Muheim accidentally turned the ball into his own net during injury time, allowing Qatar to claim a historic point.
Qatar coach Julen Lopetegui praised his team’s determination and discipline, saying the result was a reward for their hard work and resilience.
Meanwhile, Australia were scheduled to face Turkiye later on Saturday in Group D. The group was opened on Friday when the United States defeated Paraguay 4-1 in an impressive performance.
Away from the field, Ghana’s government lodged an official protest with Canada after midfielder Thomas Partey was reportedly denied a visa ahead of the tournament. Ghana has asked Canadian authorities to review the decision. Partey is due to stand trial in the United Kingdom next year on rape charges.
Ghana begin their World Cup campaign against Panama in Toronto on Wednesday.
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