FIFA World Cup 2026: Cunha, Vinicius score in Brazil's 3-0 win over Haiti
Philadelphia, June 20
Brazil got their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign up and running in style with a convincing 3-0 victory over Haiti in Philadelphia, moving to the top of Group C and ending the Caribbean nation's hopes of reaching the knockout stage.
After a disappointing 1-1 draw against Morocco in their opening match, Carlo Ancelotti's side arrived under pressure to deliver a statement performance. Haiti, meanwhile, entered the contest encouraged by a spirited display against Scotland despite suffering defeat.
Brazil showed their attacking intent from the outset and thought they had taken an early lead when Raphinha finished from Bruno Guimaraes' clever through ball. However, the celebrations were cut short by an offside flag.
The breakthrough eventually arrived midway through the first half. Vinicius Junior's powerful effort was parried by goalkeeper Johny Placide, but Matheus Cunha reacted quickest to force the loose ball over the line despite desperate attempts from the Haitian defence to clear it.
Cunha doubled Brazil's advantage soon after, capping an impressive display with a clinical finish. The striker raced onto a perfectly weighted pass from Vinicius and blasted his effort into the roof of the net at the near post, leaving Placide with no chance.
Vinicius then added a third before the interval to put the result beyond doubt. Exploiting Haiti's high defensive line, the Real Madrid forward sprinted through on goal and calmly slotted a low shot past Placide. The only concern for Brazil in the opening half was the injury-enforced withdrawal of Raphinha.
Haiti showed greater attacking ambition after the break and nearly found a way back into the contest. Defender Ricardo Ade came closest when his glancing header from a corner forced Alisson Becker into a sharp reaction save.
Despite creating fewer chances in the second period, Brazil remained in control and thought they had added a fourth through Endrick, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.
The victory gives Brazil four points from two matches, level with Morocco but ahead on goal difference, and leaves them well placed to secure a place in the Round of 32. They will face Scotland in their final group match, while Haiti's elimination was confirmed despite their improved second-half display.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Matheus Cunha was brilliant today, scored two goals and worked hard for the team. Vinicius also showed his quality. But I feel sorry for Haiti - they had some promising moments in the second half but couldn't convert. The goal line technology on the first goal was interesting - looked like it crossed the line? Either way, Brazil deserved the win. 🇧🇷
Good performance from Brazil but honestly, Haiti showed more fight than I expected after their Scotland loss. Ricardo Ade's header was close - that could have made it interesting. Brazil's depth is impressive though, even without Neymar they have so much quality. Looking forward to seeing them against Scotland next. Their group is wide open!
Another straightforward win for Brazil. Vinicius and Cunha combination is working nicely. Haiti's elimination is a shame - they showed spirit in patches but couldn't handle the pace of the Brazilian attack. I think Brazil vs Morocco will be the big game in Group C. India should watch these tactics for our development!
Solid win for Brazil, but Ancelotti might be concerned about Raphinha's injury. The second half was quite subdued - they eased off too much. Haiti had a few decent moments going forward but lacked quality in the final third. Good to see Vinicius getting on the scoresheet, he's been quiet for Brazil lately. Group C should be interesting!
Brazil showing their class once again. I liked that they didn't take Haiti lightly and put the game to bed by halftime. The way Vinicius exploited the high defensive line for that third goal was pure quality. Haiti's spirit is commendable but they
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