Philadelphia: Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha scored twice as Brazil secured a convincing victory over Haiti, sending Carlo Ancelotti’s side to the top of Group C and confirming Haiti as the first team eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
After facing criticism following their opening-match draw against Morocco, Brazil delivered a much-improved performance against weaker opposition in Philadelphia.
Cunha opened the scoring in the 23rd minute in fortunate circumstances. Haiti defender Hannes Delcroix inadvertently kicked the ball against the Brazilian forward, with the deflection spinning into the net. The striker had initially reacted quickest after goalkeeper Johny Placide parried Vinicius Jr’s effort, forcing Delcroix into the attempted clearance.
The Manchester United attacker doubled Brazil’s advantage nine minutes before halftime, finishing brilliantly after being played through by Vinicius Jr and firing into the top corner.Vinicius Jr then added Brazil’s third goal in first-half stoppage time. Lucas Paqueta produced an excellent pass over the Haiti defence, allowing the Real Madrid star to calmly slot the ball past Placide for his second goal of the tournament.
The only setback for Brazil came when Barcelona winger Raphinha was forced off through injury during the first half and was replaced by Bournemouth’s Rayan.
Haiti showed some attacking intent after the break, but Brazil goalkeeper Alisson made an excellent save to deny Ricardo Ade’s header from a corner.
Teenage striker Endrick thought he had marked his World Cup debut with a goal late in the match, but his effort was ruled out for offside.The defeat officially ends Haiti’s hopes of progressing in the tournament. They are guaranteed to finish bottom of Group C, unable to catch Brazil or Morocco on points. Although they could still equal Scotland’s tally, Steve Clarke’s side hold the superior head-to-head record.
The victory moves Brazil to the top of Group C and strengthens their position in the race for a place in the knockout stages.
