The Seleção breathed a massive sigh of relief, securing a comprehensive 3-0 victory thanks to Matheus Cunha’s brace over Haiti in their second Group C fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The win provides Brazil with their first three points of the tournament and reignites their campaign after a disappointing opening draw against Morocco.
The standout performer of the night was undoubtedly Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha.
After being restricted to a substitute role in Brazil’s opening match, Cunha made his mark as a starter, finding the back of the net twice in the first half to put the game beyond doubt.
His first goal came in the 23rd minute, a clinical tap-in following a rebound after a shot from Vinícius Júnior.
He doubled the advantage just 13 minutes later, unleashing a powerful left-footed strike that left Haitian goalkeeper Johny Placide with no chance.
Cunha’s high-energy performance and signature goal celebrations which included a playful surfing motion captured the spirit of a Brazilian side that finally looked comfortable on the world stage.
The Brazilian attack, which struggled to find cohesion in their previous match, looked fluid and dangerous against an overmatched Haitian defense. Vinícius Júnior was instrumental throughout the night, acting as the primary playmaker.
In addition to his role in the opening goal, he provided the assist for Cunha’s second strike and capped off his own brilliant performance by netting the third goal in stoppage time of the first half.
Vinicius Junior’s strike just before the halftime whistle effectively ended any lingering Haitian hopes of a comeback.
His work rate and chemistry with the front line were clear factors in Brazil’s dominance, leading to his selection as the Player of the Match.
Despite the final scoreline, Haiti’s performance was defined by resilience. Making their return to the World Cup stage for the first time in 52 years, the Caribbean side battled hard against the five-time world champions.
While they were unable to breach the Brazilian defense, they remained disciplined for long stretches of the second half, preventing the Seleção from adding more to their tally.
Unfortunately, this 3-0 defeat confirms Haiti’s elimination from the tournament. Having lost their opener to Scotland, the loss to Brazil leaves them without a path to the knockout rounds.
Nevertheless, their coach, Sébastien Migné, praised the squad’s spirit, noting that the gulf in class between the two teams was expected, but his players stood their ground until the final whistle.
For Brazil, the path to the knockout round remains in their own hands. The win moves them to the top of Group C, tied on points with Morocco but leading on goal difference.
The match was not without its concerns, however, as winger Raphinha was forced off with an injury during the first half.
Fans and pundits alike will be watching his recovery closely as Brazil prepares for their final group stage match against Scotland on June 24 in Miami Gardens.
Perhaps the biggest boost for the Brazilian camp heading into that final match is the expected return of Neymar.
The team’s talisman has been sidelined with a right calf injury, but manager Carlo Ancelotti confirmed he is likely to be fit for the Scotland clash.
With a win now under their belts and the return of their career scoring leader on the horizon, Brazil appears to be finding their rhythm at the perfect time.
