Brazil begin World Cup bid with Morocco draw as Scotland edge Haiti

By: Abudu Olalekan

Brazil kicked off their World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Morocco on Saturday, and it wasn’t exactly smooth. Vinicius Junior bailed them out with a rocket in the 32nd minute after Morocco had taken the lead through Ismael Saibari. Five-time winners, sure, but they looked shaky early on.

Scotland, back at the tournament after 28 long years, grabbed a nervy 1-0 win over Haiti thanks to John McGinn’s deflected effort. The Tartan Army made plenty of noise at Gillette Stadium, and Steve Clarke’s side held on for the three points despite some late pressure.

Qatar finally got their first-ever World Cup point too. An injury-time own goal from Switzerland’s Miro Muheim rescued a 1-1 draw after Breel Embolo had put the Swiss ahead from the spot. Coach Julen Lopetegui said he was proud of the fight even before that late moment.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted the team was anxious and didn’t play well. “We can’t lose heart,” he said. Fair enough after just one game. Scotland face Morocco next, and things won’t get any easier.

Elsewhere, Australia play Turkey later while Ghana protested Canada’s visa denial for Thomas Partey, who’s due in court next year on rape charges. Ghana open against Panama on Wednesday.