By Sabiu Abdullahi
Brazil recorded an emphatic victory over Haiti at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Friday, with Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha scoring twice in a dominant display from Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
The result confirmed Haiti as the first country to be eliminated from the tournament.
Brazil entered the match under pressure after criticism followed their opening draw against Morocco. However, the South Americans produced a convincing response in Philadelphia and moved to the top of Group C.
Cunha, who replaced Brentford striker Igor Thiago in the starting line-up, opened the scoring in the 23rd minute after Haiti defender Hannes Delcroix unintentionally kicked the ball against him before it rolled into the net.
The Brazilian striker remained alert moments later after Haiti goalkeeper Johny Placide pushed out an effort from Vinicius Jr, which forced Delcroix into a hurried reaction.
Cunha completed his brace nine minutes before the break after Vinicius Jr released him with a through pass. The forward then fired a powerful shot into the top corner.
Vinicius Jr also got on the scoresheet in first-half stoppage time. Former West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta delivered a lofted pass over the defence before the Real Madrid winger calmly finished past the goalkeeper for his second goal of the competition.
Brazil’s only setback in the encounter came after Barcelona winger Raphinha suffered an injury in the first half. He was later replaced by Bournemouth player Rayan.
Goalkeeper Alisson made an important save in the second half when Ricardo Ade directed a corner toward goal, although Brazil remained in full control throughout the match.
Teenager Endrick thought he had marked his World Cup debut with a goal late in the game, but the effort was ruled out for offside.
The defeat ended Haiti’s hopes of advancing from Group C. The team can no longer catch Brazil or Morocco on points. Haiti could still finish level with Scotland, but Steve Clarke’s side hold the superior head-to-head record.
