The World Cup party officially begins tonight as Brazil face Morocco in the most anticipated match of the tournament so far. It has often been said that a World Cup does not truly get underway until Brazil have played, and there is quite a bit of pressure on the Selecao this time around.
Brazil's Long Wait
It is 24 years since the five-time champions last won the World Cup or even reached a final, and they have never gone six editions without lifting the trophy. Carlo Ancelotti has been brought in to secure that elusive sixth gold star, but the former Real Madrid, Chelsea, and AC Milan head coach is entering unfamiliar territory. While the Italian tactician has enjoyed great success winning league titles and several Champions Leagues, he has never managed in a major international tournament, and this is quite the stage to break his duck.
Morocco's Ambition
Standing in the way of an opening game win is Morocco, who many feel are the strongest nation representing Africa at the 2026 World Cup. Morocco were controversially awarded the Africa Cup of Nations title earlier in the year after appealing their final loss to Senegal, meaning they arrive in North America aiming to complete a double. Lead once again by captain Achraf Hakimi, Morocco finished fourth in 2022 and did beat Brazil for the first time ever in the most recent meeting between the nations in March 2023. Brazil, though, overcame the Atlas Lions in the only previous World Cup showdown in 1998 as Ronaldo, Rivaldo, and Bebeto all scored.
How to Watch Brazil vs Morocco for Free
TV channel: In the UK, Brazil vs Morocco is being shown live and free-to-air on BBC One, with coverage beginning at 10.30pm BST ahead of an 11pm kick-off at the MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford.
Live stream: UK viewers can also catch the contest live online via BBC iPlayer or the BBC website.
Live blog: You can follow all the action on matchday via Standard Sport's live blog.
