Daijiworld Media Network - New Jersey
New Jersey, Jun 14: Brazil forward Vinicius Junior acknowledged he was “not 100 percent” at his best after scoring in Brazil’s 1-1 draw against Morocco in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C opener, but said he is determined to improve and contribute more in attack.
The Real Madrid star netted his 10th international goal in his 50th appearance for the Selecao, cancelling out Ismael Saibari’s earlier strike for Morocco in a match played in New York.
“I believe I can improve a lot. I managed to score, but I wasn’t 100 percent at my best technically. I can improve that and help Brazil more in attack.” Vinicius said after being named man of the match.
He also praised Brazil’s defensive effort. “I was able to help a lot defensively, where everyone did an impeccable job. We need to improve and keep developing if we want to win the competition.”
Morocco took the lead in the 21st minute through a well-worked move finished by Saibari, but Brazil responded in the 32nd minute when Vinicius produced a moment of individual brilliance to level the score.
Reflecting on the contest, Vinicius said the pressure of the tournament opener made the game particularly challenging.
“The pressure of the opening game makes it the most difficult match of the tournament. We had to adapt as quickly as possible because we conceded very early. We completely changed the way we were playing.”
He added that Brazil expected a tough challenge from Morocco, a side that has played together for a long time and shown significant quality.
“We knew it would be complicated because it was an opening match against a team that has been playing together for a long time. They have shown that they have real quality. Now we have to make sure that we come back stronger.”
The draw was notable for another reason: it was the first time Brazil failed to win a match in which Vinicius scored. On his previous eight scoring occasions, the Selecao had always emerged victorious.
Brazil, coached by Carlo Ancelotti, will now turn their focus to their next Group C fixture against Haiti on Saturday (IST) at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.