Vinicius becomes Brazil's focal point as Neymar recovers, after 1-1 with Morocco | OneFootball

Vinicius carried Brazil’s hopes in a laboured 1-1 draw with Morocco at MetLife Stadium, scoring the equaliser and easing the focus on injured Neymar.

According to L'Équipe, Carlo Ancelotti’s side looked collectively fragile, struggled to control the tempo and were soon behind, with most of Brazil’s threat stemming from the Real Madrid winger.

On 14 minutes he beat Achraf Hakimi and whipped in for Igor Thiago, who should have scored. He then levelled on 32 minutes with a trademark burst from the left and a fierce finish.

Before the interval he chased back around 50 metres to dispossess Real team-mate Brahim Diaz, celebrating in front of the yellow and green end. At half-time he was seen debating a missed foul with the referee.

Post-match he said he can still improve, that despite scoring he did not feel at 100 percent technically, and that he could help more in attack as he does in defence. He added Brazil will need to play better to win the competition.

With attention on Neymar’s calf and his late World Cup call-up, Ancelotti knows he will need a standout Vinicius to go far. The forward said the coach knows him better than anyone, gives him freedom and a prominent role, which boosts his confidence.

Cafu said days earlier that the winger has already grown, that Real pressure accelerates learning, and that Vinicius can make the difference in any match. On this evidence, Brazil may have found their guide.

Source: L'Équipe