Brazil kick off World Cup campaign against Morocco
Five-time champions Brazil begin their World Cup campaign on Saturday against Morocco as Carlo Ancelotti looks to end the Selecao's 24-year wait for a sixth world title.
The Group C clash in New Jersey pits one of football's traditional powerhouses against a Morocco side that captured global attention with its historic run to the semi-finals at the 2022 World Cup.
Ancelotti, making his World Cup debut as a coach, said he believes Brazil have the quality to compete with any team in the tournament.
"It's a new experience, it's a new responsibility to represent the country of football," the Italian said on Friday.
"We have a team that can compete with every team in the world, we're convinced of that. It's a team with quality and experience, and with absolute confidence that it can compete with anyone."
Brazil endured an inconsistent South American qualifying campaign, losing six of 18 matches and finishing fifth, but remain among the favorites to lift the trophy.
Forwards Rodrygo and Estevao are unavailable through injury, while Neymar is set to miss the opening match as he continues his recovery.
That places added responsibility on Vinicius Junior, who enjoyed another productive season with Real Madrid, while Barcelona forward Raphinha is also expected to play a key role in attack.
Morocco arrive with growing confidence after becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final in Qatar.
Coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who replaced Walid Regragui in March, believes the match will provide an early indication of his team's potential.
"It's a match that will tell us where we stand, but I think we're in a good place to start this competition.
"Lots of people say it's not the Brazil of old, but it's still Brazil."















