Fifa World Cup: Chinese fans in heated debate over Brazil’s showing in draw with Morocco
A Weibo thread that went viral on Sunday morning seems to split fans into two camps: those who know their football, and those who do not
A seemingly lacklustre and rather unconvincing Brazilian display, as the five-time champions managed a 1-1 draw against Morocco in their first match at the Fifa World Cup, has drawn heated debate among football fans in China.
A Weibo thread with the topic “Wake Up, Brazil, this is the World Cup” went viral on Sunday morning, drawing more than 15,000 likes, almost 1,400 comments and more than 400 shares in just a matter of hours, while apparently splitting the fans into two camps: those who know their football, and those who do not.
An audacious goal by Ismael Saibari gave the Africans the lead after just 21 minutes at the New Jersey Stadium, but Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior scored his 10th international goal – on his fiftieth appearance – to ensure Carlo Ancelotti’s side left with a point.
The Moroccans were defending well and relied on counter-attacks after the break, while Brazil remained careful to not press forward too much.
A section of Chinese social media users called it “a loss” for Brazil as they failed to take down Morocco, and this sentiment drew some instant criticism.
“Do you know Morocco’s world rankings? You’re way too conservative to think it’s a failure for Brazil if they don’t win,” said one commentator.