Cunha scores twice, Vinícius stars as Brazil eliminate Haiti 3-0 in World Cup

Ancelotti's adjustments pay off

After a disappointing 1-1 draw with Morocco, Brazil entered their second match under scrutiny. Pre-game, former star Ronaldinho had laid out the expectation:

“Brazil not only has to win, it also has to convince us.”

Coach Carlo Ancelotti responded by starting Matheus Cunha at centre-forward in place of Igor Thiago and deploying a diamond midfield. The changes gave Lucas Paquetá more freedom on the left and created a natural link between midfield and attack.

Vinícius Jr unleashes the attack

Vinícius Junior was the catalyst, scoring in first-half stoppage time after a breakaway and setting up Cunha’s two strikes. His bending shot in the 23rd minute was parried by goalkeeper Johny Placide, allowing Cunha to force the rebound home. Thirteen minutes later, Vinícius slipped a through ball for Cunha to drive into the top corner. The Real Madrid forward then sealed the win by rounding Placide in the 48th minute. His performance justified his status as Brazil’s most valuable player, having also netted the equaliser against Morocco.

Right flank worry as Raphinha limps off

The night was however marred by an injury to winger Raphinha. The Barcelona forward, who had an early goal ruled out for offside and missed a clear chance, sat down clutching his right thigh in the 40th minute and was replaced by Rayan. He had already missed a training session because of blisters and looked short of sharpness. With Rayan failing to settle after coming on, Luiz Henrique may get the nod if Raphinha misses the Scotland match.

Haiti’s historic return ends in early exit

Competing in their first World Cup since 1974, Haiti were eliminated after two defeats, becoming the first team knocked out of the 2026 tournament. Coach Sébastien Mignié’s side showed spirit, with Ricardo Ade forcing a reaction save from Alisson and Danilo clearing off the line, but they were outclassed. Morocco’s 1-0 win over Scotland earlier in the day left Haiti with no points from two games.

Group C outlook

Brazil top the group on four points, ahead of Morocco on goal difference. Scotland sit third with three points. The Seleção can secure a last-16 spot with a result against Scotland in their final group match.