Brazil Extends 92-Year Unbeaten Run in World Cup Openers with 1-1 Draw

Brazil’s legendary unbeaten streak in FIFA World Cup opening matches remains intact, but their aura of dominance was tested as Morocco held the five-time champions to a 1-1 draw in the opening Group fixture of the 2026 tournament.

The Seleção, coached by Carlo Ancelotti, entered the match with a remarkable record: 20 consecutive opening games without defeat since their 1934 loss to Spain.

That run now stretches to 21, though Morocco became only the second team since Switzerland in 2018 to deny Brazil victory in their first game of a World Cup.

Brazil, the only nation to have competed in all 23 editions of the tournament, sought to begin their campaign with authority.

Instead, they encountered a resilient Moroccan side, building on their historic semi-final run in 2022. The North Africans frustrated Brazil’s attack and capitalized on defensive lapses to secure a share of the points.