Explosive first-half display sees Brazil cruise past Haiti
Matheus Cunha struck twice in a devastating first-half performance as Brazil revived their World Cup 2026 campaign with a 3-0 victory over Haiti at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The Manchester United forward's quickfire double, coupled with a Vinícius Júnior strike, ensured Carlo Ancelotti's side moved top of Group C and left Haiti as the first team eliminated from the tournament.
After an insipid opening draw against Morocco, Brazil needed a response and delivered one emphatically in the first half. Haiti's high defensive line was repeatedly exploited by the pace and movement of Vinícius, Raphinha and Cunha. Raphinha had a 12th-minute effort ruled out for offside, and it was a sign of things to come. In the 23rd minute, Vinícius cut inside and saw his curling shot parried by goalkeeper Johny Placide, leaving Cunha to force home the rebound from close range amid a scramble that saw him accidentally kick defender Hannes Delcroix.
Brazil's second arrived in the 36th minute after Haiti lost possession in midfield. Vinícius threaded a pass to Cunha, who smashed a first-time left-footed finish into the roof of the net. The rout was completed in first-half stoppage time when Lucas Paquetá lofted a ball over the top for Vinícius, who calmly slotted past Placide for his first goal of the tournament.
Haiti eliminated but show second-half resilience
The result confirmed Haiti's fate: after a 1-0 loss to Scotland in their opener, they can no longer reach the knockout stages. Despite the scoreline, the Caribbean side showed fighting spirit after the break. Sunderland's Wilson Isidor forced Alisson into a low save early in the second half, and the Liverpool goalkeeper later denied Ricardo Adé's point-blank header from a corner. Haiti pushed hard for a first World Cup goal since 1974, with Dominique Simon's long-range effort tipped over in stoppage time, but Brazil's defence held firm.
Ancelotti's men, however, were unable to add to their lead after the interval. Substitutes Gabriel Martinelli and Endrick both went close—Martinelli saw a shot tipped onto the crossbar and Endrick had an effort disallowed—but the three first-half goals proved more than enough. Brazil now sit top of Group C, ahead of Morocco on goal difference, with a final group game against Scotland to come.
Raphinha injury concern clouds Brazil's victory
The one dark cloud for Brazil was the sight of Raphinha limping off before half-time with what appeared to be a hamstring injury. The Barcelona forward, who had been lively and dangerous throughout his 40-minute cameo, was replaced by Bournemouth teenager Rayan. With the knockout stages approaching, any extended absence for Raphinha would be a significant blow.
Ancelotti's decision to replace Brentford's Igor Thiago with Cunha in the starting lineup paid instant dividends, and the depth of Brazil's attacking options—with Martinelli, Endrick and Rayan all featuring—will provide reassurance. Yet Raphinha's fitness will now be a primary concern as the five-time champions look to build momentum.
Key Takeaways
- Cunha vindicates Ancelotti's faith: The Manchester United forward's double justified his selection over Igor Thiago and gave Brazil the cutting edge they lacked against Morocco.
- Haiti's World Cup dream ends: The Caribbean nation exits after two defeats, but not without showing determination and almost scoring their first World Cup goal in 52 years.
- Brazil's attack clicks into gear: Vinícius, Cunha and Raphinha combined dangerously, exposing Haiti's high line and suggesting the Seleção are finding their rhythm.
- Raphinha injury a major worry: The Barcelona winger's hamstring issue could force a reshuffle for the Scotland clash and beyond.
- Alisson keeps clean sheet intact: Vital late saves preserved Brazil's first shut-out of the tournament and cushioned any defensive wobbles.
Quick Facts
Final Score: Brazil 3–0 Haiti
Venue: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
Goals: Matheus Cunha (23', 36'), Vinícius Júnior (45+1')
Possession: Brazil 68% – 32% Haiti
Shots on Target: Brazil 8 – 3 Haiti
Key Stat: Haiti are the first team eliminated from the 2026 World Cup.
Match report based on details from The Guardian and Sky Sports.