MetLife Stadium finally took center stage as a host venue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with New Jersey staging its first match of the tournament. The opening fixture featured five-time world champions Brazil against Morocco, one of the surprise packages of the previous World Cup. The contest ultimately ended in a 1–1 draw.
Morocco made a bright start and put Brazil under significant pressure during the opening stages. The Seleção gradually settled into the game and emerged from their defensive shell, but it was Morocco who struck first. In the 21st minute, Ismael Saibari finished off a swift counterattack to beat Alisson and give his side the lead.
Brazil responded quickly. In the 32nd minute, Vinícius Júnior fired a powerful shot into the corner of the net to level the score and restore parity before halftime.
The second half remained entertaining, though both teams adopted a more balanced and cautious approach compared to the opening period. Despite creating several opportunities, neither side was able to find a winning goal, and the points were ultimately shared.
The other teams in the group, Haiti and Scotland, are set to face off in Boston later in the matchday.
