Brazil’s Cunha Delivers Brace in Comfortable Group C Victory

Matheus Cunha marked the start of Brazil’s World Cup campaign with a brace in a 3-0 triumph over Haiti in Group C.

Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical shift to debut Cunha over Igor Thiago proved decisive in Philadelphia, addressing concerns after a draw against Morocco.

The forward’s first goal came in the 23rd minute, capitalizing on a rebound from Vinicius Junior’s saved shot, though the goal was controversially allowed after he accidentally nudged defender Hannes Delcroix during the follow-through.

Cunha’s second, a left-footed strike into the near post while off balance, showcased his clinical precision. Vinicius Jr completed the scoring in stoppage time, extending Brazil’s lead to three.

Raphinha suffered a hamstring injury in the 40th minute, being replaced by Bournemouth’s Rayan. Neymar remains sidelined with a calf issue, while Endrick made his World Cup debut in the second half.

The key moments from Philadelphia…

• 23: GOAL! Cunha converts Vinicius Jr’s saved shot into an opening goal.

• 36: Cunha scores again with a powerful left-footed shot.

• 40: Raphinha exits with a suspected hamstring injury.

• 45+3: Vinicius Jr scores Brazil’s third goal before half-time.

• 64: Endrick debuts in Brazil’s lineup.

• 78: Offside goal disallowed for Endrick.

Ancelotti’s strategy bears fruit

Ancelotti’s decision to include Cunha resolved Brazil’s attacking struggles, as the forward’s movement helped break down Haiti’s high defensive line. Despite limited shots (joint-fewest since 1966 for a three-goal match), Brazil’s tactical flexibility secured the result.

The win moves Brazil to the top of Group C by goal difference, though Scotland’s upcoming match against Morocco keeps the standings fluid. Haiti’s second loss confirms their elimination.

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