Brazil secured their first victory of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a convincing 3-0 win over Haiti on Friday night, thanks to a standout performance from Vinícius Júnior and Matheus Cunha.
Vinícius scored once and provided an assist, while Cunha netted twice as the five-time world champions bounced back from their disappointing 1-1 draw with Morocco in their opening Group C fixture.
The result also ended Haiti’s hopes of advancing to the knockout stage, making the tournament debutants the first team officially eliminated from the competition.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti praised his side’s display, particularly their dominance before halftime.
“We played a complete game, especially in the first half,” Ancelotti said. “In the second half we controlled the game. Overall, it was a good performance.”
Cunha, who started after being used as a substitute against Morocco, justified his inclusion with an impressive attacking display.
The Manchester United forward opened the scoring after pouncing on a rebound from Vinícius’ effort that had been saved by Haiti goalkeeper Johny Placide.
The 27-year-old doubled Brazil’s advantage shortly afterwards, powering a left-footed strike into the top corner after being picked out by Vinícius.
“For this game, Matheus Cunha’s position was the right one to create problems for their defence,” Ancelotti explained. “He moved well and was effective with his runs. He could be a solution, but I may make changes again in the next match.”
Brazil thought they had taken an earlier lead through Raphinha, but the goal was ruled out for offside. The Barcelona winger was later forced off with an injury in the first half.
Vinícius then added a third goal before the break, effectively putting the match beyond Haiti and ensuring Brazil went into halftime with a comfortable lead.
Despite creating several chances after the interval, Brazil were unable to add to their tally. Endrick had a goal disallowed for offside, while Haiti showed greater resilience defensively in the second half.
“Our system changed a bit, we hit the woodwork and had a goal disallowed,” Ancelotti said. “We could have played better in the second half and lacked some intensity, but we also have to think about the matches ahead.”
The victory was celebrated by a crowd of 68,324 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, where Brazilian supporters vastly outnumbered their Haitian counterparts.
Cunha’s trademark surfing celebrations further delighted the fans as Brazil moved closer to securing a place in the last 16.
Speaking after the match, Cunha reflected on the significance of representing Brazil at the World Cup as the team’s No. 9.
“Many great players have worn this shirt before me,” he said. “It’s a privilege rather than a burden. Seeing the stadium full today shows what Brazil means to people.”
Brazil, chasing a first World Cup title since 2002, will conclude their Group C campaign against Scotland on Wednesday in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Meanwhile, Neymar missed a second consecutive match as he continues to recover from a calf injury.
