Brazil have recovered from the disappointment of dropping points in their opening match and are back on track to win the World Cup. Carlo Ancelotti’s men secured their first full three points of the tournament by defeating Haiti 3-0 in a crucial group stage match in Philadelphia.
Matthieu Cunha and Vinicius Jr. made the biggest contributions to Brazil’s victory, playing attacking football throughout the match. Cunha scored a pair of goals, while Vinicius scored another goal and provided two assists.
Brazil took control of the match in the first half.
Brazil put pressure on Haiti’s defense from the start. A goal by Rafinha in the 12th minute was ruled out for offside, but the Seleção continued to attack.
In the 23rd minute, Vinicius’ shot was saved by goalkeeper Johnny Placid, but Matheus Cunha scored the rebound to give Brazil the lead. Then, in the 36th minute, the forward scored his second and the team’s second goal from a perfect through pass from Vinicius.
Vinicius himself got on the scoresheet in first-half stoppage time, beating the opposition goalkeeper with a brilliant finish to make it 3-0.
The gap did not widen in the second half.
Brazil maintained control of the match even after the break. Coach Ancelotti brought on Cunha and Lucas Paqueta in the 64th minute, bringing on Endric and Gabriel Martinelli.
In the 78th minute, Endrik sent the ball into the net, but the goal was disallowed for offside. After that, there were no more goals, but Brazil left the field with a comfortable victory.
Seleção regains confidence
Brazil, who have been under criticism after dropping points against Morocco, showed glimpses of their traditional attacking football in this match. In particular, the understanding between Vinicius and Cunha repeatedly put the opponent’s defense in danger.
The win has further strengthened the five-time world champions’ position in the knockout stage. If they can maintain the same pace in the next matches, Brazil will be seen as one of the strongest contenders in the title race.
Match result
Brazil 3-0 Haiti
Goal scorer:
Matheus Cunha (23′, 36′)
Vinicius Junior (45+3′)
Man of the Match: Vinícius Júnior