Ancelotti: "First Match Against Morocco is Extremely Important, Even the Most Important"
T.E (Elbotola)
19 May 2026at12:07
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has stressed the importance of their opening match against Morocco in the 2026 World Cup, indicating it will be crucial for determining the group winner and thus securing a potentially easier path in the competition.
Speaking about the Morocco encounter during an appearance on Brazilian channel Globo's news bulletin, the Italian coach stated: "The first match is extremely important, in fact, it is the most important."
He continued: "It could be the decisive match to determine the group leader. Topping the group makes your path in the World Cup easier."
Ancelotti concluded: "The 11 players who will start the first match will be selected based on their performance in training."
Morocco is scheduled to face Brazil on Saturday, June 13, at 23:00 GMT+1, in their opening fixture of the 2026 World Cup.
What did Carlo Ancelotti say about Brazil's first World Cup match?
Carlo Ancelotti emphasized that Brazil's opening 2026 World Cup match against Morocco is "extremely important," even "the most important." He highlighted its significance for determining the group winner and securing an easier path in the competition.
Why is Brazil's opening World Cup match against Morocco so important?
Brazil's opening World Cup match against Morocco is crucial because it could be decisive in determining the group leader. Topping the group makes the team's subsequent path in the World Cup significantly easier, avoiding stronger opponents early on.
How will Carlo Ancelotti select Brazil's starting XI for the Morocco match?
Carlo Ancelotti will select Brazil's starting eleven for the crucial Morocco match based on the players' performance in training. He stressed that the final decision for the opening fixture will reflect their readiness and form leading up to the game.
