The Brazilian team debuts in the 2026 World Cup this Saturday (13) against Morocco, at MetLife Stadium, in East Rutherford (USA). At 29 years old, Issa Diop, a defender with experience in the Premier League, emerges as one of the main names in the Atlas Lions’ defensive line. With accumulated experience at West Ham and other European clubs, the defender should start alongside Chadi Riad, helping to contain the powerful Brazilian attack without Neymar, injured in his calf.
Born in Toulouse (France), of Moroccan origin, Diop stood out at Toulouse before shining at West Ham and consolidating his place in the national team. Known for his height (1.96m), physical imposition in the air, good ball release and safe positioning, he represents the defensive solidity of Morocco, semi-finalists in the 2022 World Cup.
Where to watch Brazil vs Morocco live
The game, in the first round of Group C and scheduled for 7pm (Brasília time), will be broadcast on open TV by Globo and SBT. On subscription and pay-per-view channels, SporTV and NSports show. In streaming, CazéTV on YouTube, ge TV and Globoplay also show live.
Issa Diop as a key player in Ouahbi’s strategy
Morocco’s likely lineup includes Bono; Hakimi, Issa Diop, Riad and Mazraoui; Bouaddi, El Aynaoui and Ounahi; with Brahim Díaz, Saibari and Rahimi more advanced. In central defense, Diop uses his wingspan to win aerial duels, block shots and organize the ball, which is essential to neutralize Vinicius Júnior, Matheus Cunha and Raphinha.
On the Brazilian side, Carlo Ancelotti should choose Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães and Alex Sandro; Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães; Raphinha, Lucas Paquetá, Vinícius Júnior and Matheus Cunha. The Seleção needs to explore speed on the flanks, but respect Diop’s physical presence in marking.
Issa Diop in search of historic campaign with Morocco
With consistent stints with the national team and experience in high-level leagues, Diop is experiencing a moment of maturity and sees the 2026 World Cup as an opportunity to shine on the big stage. His presence strengthens the Moroccan defense to surprise Brazil and start well in Group C, which also includes Haiti and Scotland. A good performance could pave the way for a new memorable campaign for the Atlas Lions.
The Moroccan fans, present in good numbers at MetLife, trust in Diop’s race and physical imposition to hold back Brazilian favoritism. It symbolizes the defensive solidity and resilience of a generation that elevated Moroccan football on the world stage.
