Achraf Hakimi pleased with Morocco's display following World Cup draw with Brazil

The Group C encounter between the five-time champions and the World Cup semi-finalists from Qatar 2022, who made history as the first African team to reach the last four, finished level in front of a capacity crowd.

The Atlas Lions took the lead when Ismael Saibari converted a well-placed cross from Brahim Diaz that cut through the defence, before the Selecao equalised through a magnificent curling strike from Vinicius Junior.

After the tough match, the Paris Saint-Germain full-back voiced his contentment with the team's showing and vowed to deliver a better performance in their upcoming group fixtures.

Morocco stood firm against Brazil

“It was a very challenging game. We went head-to-head with a side that is incredibly powerful and is widely regarded as one of the clear frontrunners to lift the trophy,” said Hakimi.

“Even though the match finished as a draw, we are extremely pleased and content with the standard of football the team produced on the field.

“Our main priority now is to keep enhancing our gameplay in each subsequent match we play.”

Hakimi continued: “We need to keep pushing forward, learn from our errors, and produce an even superior brand of football in the next stage.”

Morocco midfielder Samir El Mourabet echoed Hakimi's thoughts, stating: “It is a positive outcome against Brazil, now we will concentrate on what lies ahead.

“It was an emotional game; playing in the World Cup has been a boyhood dream, but once you are on the pitch, you must remain concentrated and give everything you have.

“We are aware we could have added a few more goals, and we must use that as inspiration for the upcoming games.”

Morocco controlled the game in the second half but failed to turn their opportunities into goals. Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti commended the African champions for their display.

“I feel we did not start well. I am slightly concerned. We lost many duels and a lot of possession, but we got better in the second half of a tough match, because Morocco are a strong side,” said Ancelotti.

“During the first half, we struggled to escape the pressure; we could have exerted more control. Was I satisfied? Not exactly. I anticipated a stronger start. However, these things occur. Now I will concentrate on the next fixture.”

Saibari dissatisfied with the outcome

Meanwhile, goalscorer Saibari was disappointed with the draw, asserting that Morocco merited a bigger result from the opening match because they had given their all to secure the win.

When asked whether he was content with the result, Saibari replied: “No, we gave everything for the win.”

“We aim to win every game. Brazil are simply a good side, but the match was well contested. I believe it is a fair result.”

Saibari then looked back on his debut goal for Morocco: “Once we regain possession, they become very exposed. You just need to run, control the ball, and finish. The goalkeeper had ventured far from his line, so a lob was one of the few choices.”

“This is my first World Cup match and I managed to score straight away. On a personal level, I am very pleased, but of course I would have preferred a win.”

Morocco's next fixture is on 19 June against Scotland, before they finish their group stage campaign against Haiti on 24 June.