Morocco Breaks Italy's Remarkable Record, While Brazil Extends Impressive Streak

With their 1-1 draw against Brazil in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup, Morocco extended their unbeaten streak to 38 consecutive games, marking the longest such run for a national team in football history.

The previous record was held by Italy, who remained undefeated between 2018 and 2021. Morocco's impressive run began in the spring of 2024, following a 0-2 loss to South Africa in the preceding Africa Cup of Nations. In the interim, the "Atlas Lions" also set a record for consecutive victories by a national team. It's worth noting that matches played in the African Nations Championship are not counted towards this unbeaten streak, as only players from domestic leagues are eligible to participate in that tournament.

Meanwhile, the North Africans maintained their unfortunate trend of never starting a World Cup with a win. In their seven previous World Cup appearances, the team has recorded four draws and three losses in their opening fixtures.

On the other hand, Brazil extended their fantastic streak to 22 matches without a loss in their World Cup opening games. This includes a 2-0 victory over Bulgaria at the 1966 World Cup. The "Seleção's" only opening match defeat in such a tournament dates back to the inaugural edition in 1930: a 1-2 loss against Yugoslavia.