World Cup 2026: Ancelotti wary of Morocco threat as Brazil prepare for Group C opener

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has expressed his respect for Morocco ahead of the Seleção’s opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the Atlas Lions as one of the strongest teams in international football and warning that his side must be at their best to secure victory.

The five-time world champions will begin their World Cup campaign against Morocco on Saturday, June 13, in what is expected to be one of the standout fixtures of the opening round of matches.

The Group C encounter pits two nations with high ambitions against each other as they seek to make an early statement in the tournament.

Ancelotti Praises Morocco’s Quality

Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Ancelotti highlighted Morocco’s strength and the quality of players within their squad, many of whom compete at the highest level of European football.

“Don’t forget, tomorrow we are facing the champions of Africa, Morocco. They’re a great team,” Ancelotti said.

The experienced Italian manager stressed that Brazil cannot afford to underestimate their opponents and will need to deliver a complete performance to come away with all three points.

“Morocco is a great team and they have complete players who perform in Europe. In order to beat them, we have to defend better and attack better, otherwise we will be in trouble.”

Tough Test for the Selecao

Brazil enter the tournament as one of the favourites to lift the trophy, but their opening fixture presents a difficult challenge against a Moroccan side that has established itself among the world’s elite in recent years.

The Atlas Lions have continued to build on their growing reputation and will be aiming to begin their World Cup journey with a positive result against one of football’s most decorated nations.

For Ancelotti, who is leading Brazil into a World Cup for the first time, the match offers an opportunity to set the tone for the campaign while also assessing his team’s readiness against top-level opposition.

Eyes on MetLife Stadium

With excitement building ahead of kick-off, fans around the world will be watching closely as two football powerhouses collide in a highly anticipated Group C showdown.

The match is scheduled to take place at the iconic MetLife Stadium, with kick-off set for 22:00 GMT on Saturday.

A victory for either side would provide a significant boost in the race for qualification to the knockout stage, making the opening encounter a crucial one for both Brazil and Morocco as the 2026 FIFA World Cup gathers momentum.