The Group C meeting between the five-times winner and the Qatar 2022 semi-finalists – who became the first African nation to reach the last four – ended all square in front of a packed stadium.
The Atlas Lions scored the opener, as Ismael Saibari finished a defence-splitting cross from Brahim Diaz, before the Selecao drew level when Vinicius Junior scored from a superbly curled effort.
Speaking after the gruelling contest, the Paris Saint-Germain defender expressed satisfaction with the performance and further promised an improved display in their subsequent group matches.
Morocco went toe-to-toe with Brazil
“The match was not easy at all. We went toe-to-toe against an opponent that is exceptionally strong and stands as one of the definitive favourites to win this entire tournament,” said Hakimi.
“Although the match ended in a draw, we are deeply satisfied and happy with the level of performance the team displayed on the pitch.
“Our primary focus now must be to consistently improve our gameplay with every single match we play moving forward.”
Hakimi added: “We have to keep going and learn from our mistakes, and deliver an even higher standard of football in the next round.”
Morocco midfielder Samir El Mourabet echoed Hakimi’s sentiments by saying, “It’s a good result against Brazil, now we’ll focus on what comes next.
“It was an emotional match, playing in the World Cup was a childhood dream, but once you’re on the pitch, you have to stay focused and give it your all.
“We know we could have scored a few more goals and we’ll need to use that as motivation for the next matches.”
Morocco dominated proceedings of the game in the second half but were not able to convert their chances. Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti praised the African champions for their performance.
“I think we didn't start very well. I'm a little worried. We lost a lot of duels and possession, but we improved in the second half of a difficult match, because Morocco is a good team,” said Ancelotti.
“In the first half, we had difficulty getting out of the pressure; we could have had more control. (Was I) Satisfied? Not really. I expected a better start. But things can happen. Now I'm going to focus on the next game.”
Saibari not satisfied with result
Meanwhile, goalscorer Saibari was not satisfied with the draw, insisting Morocco deserved to get something bigger from the opener because they gave everything to get the victory.
Asked if he was satisfied with the outcome, Saibari said, “No, we gave everything for the victory.
“We try to win every match. Brazil is simply a good team, but the game was evenly matched. I think it’s a logical result.”
Saibari then reflected on his first goal for Morocco: “As soon as we win the ball back, they're very open. All you have to do is run, control the ball, and finish. He had come far out of his area, so that lob was one of the few options.
“It's my first World Cup match and I scored right away. Personally, I’m very satisfied, but I would obviously have preferred a victory.”
Morocco’s next game is on June 19th against Scotland before they conclude their group stage matches against Haiti on June 24th.
