Brazil and Morocco Share the Spoils in Thrilling World Cup Opener

A pulsating start to the World Cup Group C showdown between Brazil and Morocco on Saturday saw Ismael Saibari put the Africans ahead before Vinicius Junior inspired Brazil to draw level.

A contest that was promised to deliver an early goal-fest lived up to its billing with two strikes coming inside the initial stages.

Morocco, who looked more vibrant in the opening quarter of an hour, converted pressure into a breakthrough on a quick transitional play initiated by Brahim Diaz. Saibari lifted a delicate lob over the advancing Alisson Becker in the 21st minute.

Just over 10 minutes later, Brazil created their first genuine scoring opportunity and seized it. Vinicius Junior drove in from the left, slipped past Neil El-Aynaoui, then powered beyond Yassine Bounou in the 32nd minute.

His exceptional solo effort drew Brazil back into the contest after Morocco's opener.

There were many more talking points in this World Cup encounter.

Brazil star Vinicius Junior silenced his critics with a stunning World Cup debut.

Vinicius Junior will reportedly discuss his Real Madrid renewal after the World Cup.

Vinicius Jr discussed Carlo Ancelotti's expectations for Brazil at the World Cup, revealing the manager's demands have given him a sense of great freedom.

It was confirmed that Neymar will miss Brazil's World Cup opener against Morocco.

The upcoming transfer window is expected to see many of the world's biggest stars become free agents, with several deals set to expire next month.

The Premier League addressed the controversy surrounding James Maddison's missed penalty for Tottenham against Leeds.

An own goal from Bento nearly denied Cristiano Ronaldo his first title with Al Nassr.