Brazil’s 'Hexa' dream kicks off against combative Morocco

For Brazil, every World Cup begins with one expectation — lifting the trophy. The five-time world champions embark on their 2026 FIFA World Cup journey on Sunday (June 14) with a familiar dream: winning a record-extending sixth title, the coveted 'Hexa'.

But standing in their way is no ordinary opponent. Morocco, the surprise package of the last World Cup and Africa’s first-ever semi-finalist, await the Seleção in a blockbuster Group Stage opener at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The match kicks off at 4:00am (Bangladesh time) and will be played at the same venue set to host the tournament final.

A New Era, the Same Ambition

World Cups and Brazil are almost synonymous. From Pelé’s brilliance and Romário’s goals to Ronaldo’s dominance and Neymar’s artistry, the yellow jersey has long embodied football excellence.

Yet despite their rich history, Brazil have not lifted the World Cup since 2002. More than two decades have passed since their last triumph, turning the pursuit of a sixth title into a national obsession.

This year, Brazil begin that quest under the guidance of legendary Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti, who became the first foreign head coach in the 112-year history of the Brazilian national team. Renowned for his success at club level, Ancelotti now faces arguably the toughest challenge of his career—bringing football’s biggest prize back to Brazil.

Morocco No Longer Underdogs

While Brazil enter as favourites, Morocco have already proven they belong among football’s elite.

The Atlas Lions stunned the world in Qatar 2022 by becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final, eliminating Spain and Portugal along the way. Their remarkable run transformed them from regional contenders into genuine global competitors.

The historical record slightly favours Brazil. The two sides met only once in World Cup history, with Brazil winning 3-0 in the 1998 tournament. They have also shared one victory each in two international friendlies.

Most notably, Morocco defeated Brazil 2-1 in Tangier in 2023 — a result that will give the North Africans added belief heading into Sunday's encounter.

Injury Concerns for Brazil

Brazil’s preparations have been complicated by injuries to several key players.

Rodrygo, Estevao, Eder Militao and Wesley are all unavailable, while the biggest concern remains Neymar. Brazil’s all-time leading scorer has yet to fully recover from injury and is expected to miss the opening match.

As a result, much of the attacking responsibility will fall on Vinicius Junior, Raphinha and Matheus Cunha.

There are also lingering questions in defence. Although Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhães provide stability in central defence, Ancelotti is yet to settle on a permanent solution at right-back.

Morocco’s New Chapter

Morocco, meanwhile, arrive with a new man at the helm. Following the departure of Walid Regragui, architect of their historic 2022 campaign, Mohammed Ouahbi has taken charge. The highly rated coach guided Morocco to the FIFA U-20 World Cup title last year and now faces his biggest test on the senior stage.

The squad still boasts considerable experience, led by stars such as Hakim Ziyech, Achraf Hakimi, Selim Amallah and Azzedine Ounahi. Their disciplined defence and devastating counter-attacks remain Morocco’s greatest weapons.

However, injuries have also disrupted their plans. Defender Nayef Aguerd and winger Abde Ezzalzouli were both ruled out after suffering injuries in a recent warm-up match.

More Than Three Points

Opening matches often shape the trajectory of an entire World Cup campaign.

For Brazil, this is more than a battle for three points. It is an opportunity to send a statement to the rest of the world that the quest for Hexa is real.

For Morocco, it is a chance to prove that their historic run in Qatar was no one-off miracle, but the beginning of a new era for African football.

Under the lights of MetLife Stadium, two contrasting stories collide—one of football’s most decorated giants seeking redemption and glory, the other of a rising force determined to defy expectations once again.

Whether Brazil begin their march towards a sixth world title in style or Morocco deliver another famous upset, one thing is certain: the World Cup journey starts with a heavyweight test.