Brazil vs Morocco

Of all the group-stage fixtures this is one of the genuine marquee draws — Brazil against the Morocco side that reached the 2022 semi-finals and has only deepened its talent pool since. This is not a seeding gift for the Seleção; it is a serious test on matchday one of their schedule.

Brazil's strength is forward depth — Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo from the Real Madrid axis, Endrick maturing into a number nine, and a midfield that now has more balance than the chaotic 2022 vintage. The recurring doubt is the back line's concentration and a goalkeeper position that has lacked a settled long-term answer.

Morocco are the most complete non-European, non-South-American side in the world: Achraf Hakimi driving from right-back, a disciplined double pivot, Bilal El Khannouss and the new generation adding creativity, and a defensive organisation drilled by a federation that has invested heavily since Qatar. They do not fear Brazil and will not sit deep out of respect.

Morocco's plan will be a mid-block that denies Vinícius the running lanes he thrives on, then quick transitions through Hakimi. Brazil's edge is individual quality in the final third — they can manufacture a goal from nothing even on an off day. The risk is a cagey, tight contest decided by one moment, with Morocco fully capable of a draw or a smash-and-grab.

Brazil's ceiling is higher and their match-winners more numerous, but the margin is thin against this opponent. We back Brazil to win at 1.80 with medium confidence — backing the superior individual quality to settle a close game, while acknowledging Morocco are good enough to make the double chance the conservative alternative.