Ancelotti Faces Scrutiny After Brazil's 1-1 Draw With Morocco

3 articles · Updated · NBC News · Jun 14

Brazil opened its World Cup with a 1-1 draw against Morocco, leaving Carlo Ancelotti under immediate pressure from fans and Brazilian media after a shaky display.
Morocco struck first in the 21st minute through Ismael Saibari after a Brazil turnover, exposing Brazil's hesitant start and lack of control.
Vinicius Junior rescued Brazil with a solo equalizer and drove most of its second-half threat, while a missed Raphinha chance left the five-time champions without a winning goal.
Ancelotti said Brazil played with nerves and poor possession early, defended his overall approach, and signaled lineup changes as he seeks a more balanced, aggressive attack.
The result turned Brazil's tournament opener into an early test of whether Ancelotti, hired in 2025 after elite club success, can handle the unique pressure of managing the five-time champions.