Football

2026 World Cup: Cunha bags brace as Brazil beat Haiti 3-0 for first victory

The Manchester United forward doubled Brazil’s lead before halftime after being released by Vinicius Junior and firing a powerful left-footed strike past the goalkeeper.

Brazil forward Matheus Cunha celebrates one of his two goals during the Selecao's 3-0 FIFA World Cup victory over Haiti in Philadelphia. [Mauro Pimentel/AFP]

FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C Result
Brazil 3-0 Haiti (Matheus Cunha 23′, 38′ Vinicius Junior 44′)

Philadelphia, USA: Matheus Cunha scored a brace as Brazil eased to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Haiti on Friday to register their first win of the FIFA World Cup 2026 and move to the summit of Group C.

The five-time world champions responded emphatically after a disappointing 1-1 draw against Morocco in their opening match, with Carlo Ancelotti’s side outclassing a spirited Haitian team making only their second World Cup appearance.

Cunha opened the scoring in the 23rd minute after reacting quickest to a loose ball inside the box following a save from Haiti goalkeeper Johny Placide.

The Manchester United forward doubled Brazil’s lead before halftime after being released by Vinicius Junior and firing a powerful left-footed strike past the goalkeeper.

Vinicius then got on the scoresheet himself moments before the break, calmly finishing Lucas Paqueta’s floated pass to put Brazil firmly in control.

Brazil dominated possession throughout the contest and could have scored more, with Raphinha having an early effort ruled out for offside and substitute Gabriel Martinelli striking the crossbar late on.

Despite the one-sided affair, Haiti nearly scored their first World Cup goal since 1974 when Ricardo Ade’s glancing header forced Alisson Becker into a fine save in the second half.

The introduction of teenage sensation Endrick generated loud cheers from Brazil supporters as Ancelotti rotated his squad while protecting a comfortable lead.

Brazil also kept their first clean sheet in seven matches, a positive sign after defensive concerns following recent performances.

For Haiti, the defeat means their World Cup campaign comes to an end after suffering consecutive losses. The Caribbean nation becomes the first team officially eliminated from the tournament.

Brazil now turn their attention to a decisive final Group C clash against Scotland, while Haiti will conclude their campaign against Morocco.

Group C Standings

TeamPlayedPts
Brazil24
Morocco11
Scotland11
Haiti20

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