Brazil returned to winning ways at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Haiti, a result that sent the five-time champions to the top of Group C and confirmed Haiti as the first nation to be eliminated from the tournament.
After being held to a 1-1 draw by Morocco in their opening fixture, Carlo Ancelotti’s side entered the match knowing that anything less than victory would complicate their path to the knockout stages.
The Selecao responded with a dominant display, inspired by a brilliant brace from Manchester United striker Matheus Cunha.
Brazil controlled possession from the opening whistle and were rewarded for their attacking intent in the 23rd minute. Cunha opened the scoring in fortunate circumstances when a defensive clearance ricocheted off him and looped into the net, handing Brazil a deserved lead after sustained pressure.
The striker doubled Brazil’s advantage 13 minutes later with a finish that underlined his growing confidence. Vinicius Junior threaded a perfectly timed pass through the Haitian defence, and Cunha raced onto it before unleashing a powerful strike beyond goalkeeper Johny Placide.
Brazil’s attacking trio continued to torment Haiti’s backline, and Vinicius capped an impressive first-half performance by adding a third goal moments before the break.
The Real Madrid winger collected a precise long ball from Lucas Paqueta before calmly finishing to put the South Americans firmly in control.
Holding a commanding 3-0 lead at halftime, Brazil managed the second half professionally, reducing the tempo while maintaining complete control of proceedings.
Haiti showed determination and attempted to find a way back into the contest, but Brazil’s well-organised defence ensured goalkeeper Alisson was rarely called into action.
The victory was also a personal triumph for Ancelotti, whose tactical adjustments paid immediate dividends. The Brazilian coach made two changes to his starting lineup, introducing Cunha and Danilo, with the former producing a man-of-the-match display to justify the decision.
Cunha’s performance was one of the standout stories of the evening, but Vinicius also played a crucial role. The winger was involved in all three goals, scoring once and providing an assist as Brazil’s attacking unit finally clicked into gear.
The result lifts Brazil to the summit of Group C on four points, level with Morocco but ahead on goal difference. Scotland remain in contention with three points, while Haiti’s second defeat in as many matches ends their hopes of progressing to the knockout rounds.
With qualification now firmly in their own hands, Brazil will turn their attention to a decisive final group-stage clash against Scotland. Having found their attacking rhythm at the right moment, the Selecao will head into that encounter full of confidence as they continue their pursuit of a sixth World Cup crown.
