Brazil unbeaten in World Cup openers for 88 years

One of the most successful teams in world football, Brazil, is not only a five-time champion, but also a symbol of long-term dominance and consistency. The only team in the history of the World Cup to participate in every tournament, the Seleção has created a unique feat in its opening matchs.

Brazil has not lost its opening match at a World Cup in 88 years.

Brazil began its journey on the world stage with a 1-2 defeat against Yugoslavia in the first World Cup held in 1930. Then, they had to leave the 1934 World Cup after losing 1-3 to Spain.

They are undefeated in the opening match of 20 consecutive tournaments, starting from the 1938 match against Poland until the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Out of these 20 matches, the Seleção has left the field with a victory in 17, while the remaining 3 matches have been draws.

During this long journey, Brazil has faced Mexico the most in the opening match of the World Cup. The Selecao faced Mexico in their first match in 1950, 1954, 1962 and 2014. Interestingly, Brazil defeated Mexico in each of these four matches. They conceded a total of 14 goals to Mexico, but kept their own goalposts intact each time.