Brazil slump to shock 2-1 defeat to Morocco in first game since disappointing World Cup in Qatar
MOROCCO stunned Brazil 2-1 on Saturday as the North African nation continued to ride the wave following a superb World Cup.
Disappointing Qatar quarter-finalists Brazil also picked up from where they left off by suffering a first ever defeat to Morocco.
Andrey Santos, who joined Chelsea in January but was sent on loan to Vasco da Gama after having a work permit rejected, was handed an international debut.
And the 18-year-old shone in the middle of the park in Tangier, despite the defeat.
Elsewhere Manchester United due Casemiro and Antony, Tottenham right-back Emerson Royal and West Ham playmaker Lucas Paqueta were all involved for Brazil.
Meanwhile Hammers defender Nayef Aguerd and Chelsea winger Hakim Ziyech both started for Morocco.
Ex-Southampton star Sofiane Boufal gave Morocco the lead after 29 minutes, scoring with a powerful turn and drive from a pass by Bilal El Khannous.
But Red Devils ace Casemiro continued his stunning club form onto the international stage.
The Brazil skipper levelled in the 67th minute when his weak shot was fumbled by goalkeeper Morocco stopper Yassine Bounou.
On-loan Sampdoria midfielder Abdelhamid Sabiri then struck a 79th minute winner as Morocco showed that reaching the World Cup semi-finals was no fluke.
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Although only ten of the 23-man squad that took Brazil to Qatar travelled to Morocco for the game, with the injured Neymar absent.
Brazil boss Tite stepped down after the World Cup quarter-final defeat to Croatia, with Ramon Menezes currently the interim gaffer.
And speaking after Saturday’s friendly defeat, Casemiro said: “I wouldn’t say we lacked understanding, it’s about putting into practice the ideas of a new coach.
“I think we played a good game and did everything as far as possible to win.”
Brazil are hoping to name a new permanent boss before the start of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in September.
Reports claim Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is their No1 choice.
However, he is not expected to make a decision on his future until the end of the season.