Vinicius Rescues Brazil

Five-time champions Brazil needed a moment of magic from Vinicius Junior to avoid defeat in their World Cup opener. They drew 1-1 with Morocco at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Saturday.

Ismael Saibari gave Morocco a 21st-minute lead with a clever scoop, but Vinicius levelled 11 minutes later. He cut in from the left and unleashed a thunderous shot that flew past goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. The result leaves Group C wide open.

Brazil are chasing a record sixth World Cup title, 24 years after last lifting the trophy. But coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted his side looked nervous and anxious.

“I think this was a tough match, especially in the beginning. I think the team was a bit anxious and nerves were all over the place,” Ancelotti said. “We didn’t play well, but we can't lose heart. This is the first match in the World Cup.”

Scotland Win on Return

Scotland marked their first World Cup appearance since 1998 with a nervy 1-0 win over Haiti in Foxborough, Massachusetts. John McGinn’s deflected shot in the 28th minute was enough, as the Tartan Army roared the team on.

“Everyone said it was a must-win game – we won the game,” said Scotland manager Steve Clarke. His side face Morocco next on Friday.

Australia Shock Turkey

In the day’s biggest surprise, Australia beat Turkey 2-0 in Vancouver. Coach Tony Popovic made the bold call to drop captain and goalkeeper Maty Ryan for rookie Patrick Beach. The decision paid off: Beach made save after save as Turkey dominated possession with 72 percent.

Nestory Irankunda opened the scoring in the 27th minute after a pass from Paul Okon-Engstler, who replaced vice-captain Jackson Irvine. Connor Metcalfe sealed the win with a solo strike in the 75th minute.

“Proud to be here as head coach, to experience this… and just happy for a wonderful young group of men,” Popovic said. He praised Beach, saying: “It's something that we've always seen, and I've got a lot of belief in the young man.”

Qatar Make History

Qatar earned their first ever World Cup point when Miro Muheim’s injury-time own goal gave them a 1-1 draw with Switzerland in Group B. Breel Embolo had put Switzerland ahead from the penalty spot in the first half.

“I am very proud of the team,” said Qatar coach Julen Lopetegui. “I told them that even if we hadn't scored the goal and didn't draw I would have been proud of the mentality and discipline.”