FIFA WC: Brazil crush Haiti 3-0; Cunha steals the show
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Philadelphia: Brazil secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Haiti at the Philadelphia Stadium to record their first win of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and move to the top of Group C on goal difference.
The result also ended Haiti's hopes of progressing in the tournament, making them the first team to be eliminated after suffering a second consecutive defeat.
Under coach Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil delivered a far more assured display than in their opening draw against Morocco. Matheus Cunha, handed his first World Cup start ahead of Igor Thiago, played a decisive role in the victory with two first-half goals.
Brazil took the lead in the 23rd minute when a clearance struck Cunha and deflected into the net after Haiti goalkeeper Johny Placide had denied Vinicius Junior. Cunha added a second before halftime, finishing clinically from the edge of the penalty area after being set up by Vinicius.
The forward's movement and link-up play caused persistent problems for Haiti's defence while creating space for Brazil's attacking unit. Vinicius then extended the lead before the break, beating the goalkeeper in a one-on-one situation to effectively put the contest beyond Haiti's reach.
Haiti altered their formation after the interval, switching from a defensive setup to a 4-4-2 shape. Combined with a drop in Brazil's attacking intensity, the tactical change helped prevent further goals.
Despite the defeat, Haiti created a notable chance when Ricardo Ade met a corner with a powerful header, but goalkeeper Alisson produced an important save. Endrick also came close to marking his World Cup debut with a goal, only for the effort to be ruled out for offside.
Brazil now lead Group C following Morocco's 1-0 victory over Scotland.