Five-time world champions Brazil kick off their FIFA World Cup 2026 journey with a high-profile Group C clash against Morocco at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Saturday.
The encounter pits one of football’s most decorated nations against a Moroccan side determined to prove that their remarkable run to the semi-finals in Qatar was no fluke. Both teams enter the tournament carrying lofty ambitions, making this one of the standout fixtures of the opening round.
Brazil arrive in the United States eager to erase memories of their disappointing quarter-final exit at the previous World Cup. With renewed optimism and a squad packed with quality across the pitch, the Selecao are targeting a strong start as they chase a sixth global crown.
Morocco, meanwhile, continue to build on the momentum generated by their historic campaign four years ago. The Atlas Lions captured the imagination of football fans worldwide by becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final, and they now face another opportunity to showcase their credentials on the biggest stage.
Team news
Brazil will be without talisman Neymar, who remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from a grade two calf injury. The veteran forward has not regained full fitness in time for the tournament opener.
The South Americans have also lost right-back Wesley, whose World Cup hopes were ended by a muscle injury suffered during a pre-tournament friendly victory over Egypt.
Morocco hit by Aguerd and Ezzalzouli absences ahead of World Cup opener
Morocco have their own selection setbacks. Central defender Nayef Aguerd and winger Abde Ezzalzouli have both been ruled out of the competition through injury. Aguerd is struggling with a groin problem, while Ezzalzouli is recovering from a knee issue.
To address those absences, head coach Walid Regragui has called up Marwane Saadane of Al Fateh and Angers winger Amine Sbai as replacements.
Probable lineups
Brazil (possible XI): Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel, Sandro; Casemiro, Guimaraes; Raphinha, Paqueta, Vinicius Jr; Cunha.
Morocco (possible XI): Bounou; Hakimi, Diop, Riad, Mazraoui; Amrabat, El Aynaoui, Ounahi; Diaz, Saibari, El Khannouss.
World Cup 2026. Brazil vs Morocco: preview, prediction, betting, player to watch
Where to watch
Fans in Morocco can follow the match live on Arryadia after the National Radio and Television Company (SNRT) secured an agreement with beIN SPORTS to televise the national team’s World Cup fixtures.
The contest will also be shown on beIN Sports MAX 4, beIN Sports MAX 2, BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Across international markets, coverage will be available through Globo, SBT, SportTV, N Sports, Ge TV and Cazé TV.
With Brazil aiming to stamp their authority on Group C and Morocco looking to deliver another statement performance on football’s grandest stage, Saturday’s showdown promises to be one of the most intriguing opening matches of the tournament.
