EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. - Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti blamed nerves for his side's poor opening in their World Cup debut against Morocco, where they had to settle for a 1-1 draw.

A brilliant goal from Vinicius Junior earned the point at MetLife Stadium after Morocco controlled much of the first half and went ahead through Ismael Saibari.

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"It was a challenging game, particularly early on," Ancelotti noted.

"The players seemed tense at the start, with nerves affecting their play. We improved after the break, yet it remained difficult, and I expect further progress."

Vinicius also noted the difficult beginning.

"Our start was poor," said Vinicius, who netted his second World Cup goal, via a translator. "We must keep possession better and improve our movement."

When asked about supporting the team mentally before their next game versus Haiti in Philadelphia on Friday, Ancelotti said he would review the causes of the shaky performance.

"We will need to examine that closely," he added.

"The pressure is significant, which is understandable. We will get better gradually."

After nearly losing their first World Cup match since 1934, Ancelotti faced tough questions at the post-match press conference about his choices and approach.

Still, the Italian expressed satisfaction with the draw and remained fully confident Brazil would improve ahead of the knockout phase.

"We must review our actions," he stated.

"The first half left us exposed. We showed some improvement later. One match does not decide the World Cup.

"I am neither disappointed nor fully content. Work is needed, as expected. Morocco performed strongly and stayed organized. It proved tough.

"A World Cup debut can fall short for various reasons. Our aim is to advance and build from here."

Brazil forward Neymar, sidelined by a right calf injury, missed the match on Saturday.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.