Matheus Cunha struck twice as Brazil claimed a comfortable 3-0 victory over Haiti in Philadelphia, igniting their World Cup campaign with a dominant first-half display.
Match Recap: Brazil Bounce Back in Style
Carlo Ancelotti's side entered the fixture needing a response after an opening draw against Morocco, and the decision to start Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha ahead of Brentford's Igor Thiago paid immediate dividends. From the first whistle, Brazil imposed themselves, and a deserved lead arrived in the 23rd minute when Cunha forced home a rebound after Vinicius Junior saw his initial effort saved. The goal survived a brief check after Cunha accidentally caught defender Hannes Delcroix while deflecting the ball over the line.
Cunha's second was a moment of pure quality. In the 36th minute, he smashed an unstoppable left-footed shot high into the near post while off balance, underlining the confidence Ancelotti has placed in him. Vinicius Jr then rolled in a third deep into first-half stoppage time to cap an electrifying opening period.
Key Moments: Injury Concern for Raphinha
The sole negative for Brazil came when Barcelona winger Raphinha was forced off in the 40th minute with an apparent hamstring injury. He left the pitch with an ice pack on his right leg, and his availability for the final group match is now in doubt. Bournemouth's Rayan replaced him, with Neymar still nursing a calf problem and not yet available. Teenager Endrick made his World Cup debut after the break and had a goal ruled out for offside, but Brazil had already done the damage.
What the Result Means
Brazil's victory vaults them to the top of Group C on goal difference, though the group remains wide open heading into the final round of fixtures. They face Scotland on Wednesday, who themselves fell to a 1-0 defeat against Morocco earlier on Tuesday. Haiti, after two straight losses, become the first nation officially eliminated from the tournament.
The live scores and tournament hub have all the latest group permutations.
Quick Facts
Venue: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
Attendance: Not confirmed
Goals: Cunha (23', 36'), Vinicius Jr (45+3')
Injuries: Raphinha (hamstring, 40')
Debut: Endrick (64')
Key Takeaways
- Cunha's clinical double justified Ancelotti's bold selection call and gives Brazil a focal point in attack.
- Vinicius Jr's goal and assist performance underscored his status as the team's creative heartbeat.
- Raphinha's injury could force tactical adjustments with Neymar still recovering.
- Haiti, eliminated after two matches, failed to trouble a dominant Brazil side that controlled the game from start to finish.
- Brazil now hold the goals advantage in a Group C that will be decided on the final matchday against Scotland.
Source: Sky Sports Football
