Vinícius Júnior has conceded that Brazil's underwhelming start cost them dearly in their 1-1 draw against Morocco in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at MetLife Stadium on Saturday.

Morocco controlled the match from the opening whistle and broke the deadlock in the 21st minute when Ismael Saibari finished with a clinical chip. Brazil struggled to find their rhythm in the early exchanges and were made to pay for their hesitancy.

Vinícius pulled Brazil level in the 32nd minute, combining with Bruno Guimarães before driving a powerful right-footed effort into the net. The Real Madrid forward's intervention rescued the Seleção from what would have been a damaging opening defeat.

Vinicius calls for improvement

Speaking to FIFA.com after the final whistle, Vinícius did not shy away from criticism of Brazil's early display.