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Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has expressed his respect for Morocco ahead of Saturday’s highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C opener at MetLife Stadium, warning that the Atlas Lions have the quality to trouble any opponent.
Speaking during the pre-match press conference, the Italian manager acknowledged the challenge awaiting his side against the African champions.
“Don’t forget, tomorrow we are facing the champions of Africa, Morocco. They’re a great team,” Ancelotti said.
The 67-year-old coach praised the level of talent within the Moroccan squad, highlighting the growing influence of Moroccan players at the highest level of European football.
“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.”
First World Cup match’s pressure
Ancelotti also spoke about the pressure surrounding his first World Cup match as Brazil’s head coach. Rather than avoiding the expectations, he embraced them.
“It’s an honor and a big responsibility for me. I am excited and I look forward to it.”
The former Real Madrid manager also delivered a memorable response when asked about the pressure of leading Brazil on football’s biggest stage.
“Fear is good. If you go without fear, you will face the lion thinking it’s a cat.”
Vinicius wary of Morocco threat
Brazil star Vinicius Junior echoed his coach’s admiration for Morocco, refusing to reveal tactical details ahead of the encounter while recognizing the Atlas Lions’ reputation for producing surprises on the world stage.
“I can’t reveal our secrets or our official formation here because I am sure that the Moroccan national team is watching this press conference,” Vinicius joked.
“Morocco is always able to make surprises in the World Cup, as usual.”
The Real Madrid winger credited Morocco for its remarkable rise in recent years and described the team as an inspiration for many countries across Africa and beyond.
“Credit to Morocco and what they have achieved. They have become a big model for many countries in Africa and even outside Africa.”
Vinicius also highlighted several of Morocco’s star players, including Brahim Diaz and Achraf Hakimi, while praising the team’s technical quality and experience at the highest level.
“They have talented players and are very good technically. They have Diaz, Hakimi and others who play regularly in the Champions League.”
“It will be a very good game to watch. I hope the fans can enjoy a good show.”
The clash between Morocco and Brazil is one of the standout fixtures of the opening round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With both teams targeting a strong start in Group C, the encounter promises to be one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament’s first weekend.
