Matheus Cunha kicked off Brazil’s World Cup campaign with two goals in a comfortable 3-0 win over Haiti in Group C.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side needed a response after being held to a draw by Morocco in the opening game, and his decision to bring on Brentford striker Igor Thiago in place of Manchester United striker Cunha paid off in Philadelphia.
Cunha took a deserved lead in the 23rd minute and headed home a saved effort from Vinicius Junior. The goal stood, though, after the forward was unlucky to accidentally kick the ball away when defender Hannes Delcroix deflected it over the line.
But Cunha’s second strike was brilliantly struck off the near post with his left foot, leaving no doubt as he was taken off balance and Vinicius Junior scored a third goal in stoppage time to cap off Brazil’s impressive first-half performance.
The only downside for Brazil was winger Raphinha being sent off in the 40th minute with an apparent hamstring injury. The Barcelona forward later had an ice pack strapped to the back of his right leg.
Bournemouth’s Rayan replaced Raphinha, Neymar is yet to return from a calf problem and teenager Endrik, who made his World Cup debut in the second half, had a goal taken for offside as Brazil took the lead.
Brazil’s win takes them top of Group C on goal difference, but leaves them wide open for a place in Wednesday’s final game, when they face Scotland, who lost to Morocco on Tuesday. Haiti’s second loss meant they became the first country to be eliminated.
Big moments in Philadelphia…
23: target! Cunha fired in a fine opener from close range after Vinicius Junior’s shot was blocked.
36: target! Cunha struck again, firing a brilliant left-footed shot high into the goal at the near post.
40: Lapinha is injured! The winger looks worried after being ruled out due to a hamstring injury.
45+3: target! Vinicius Junior scored his second goal of the World Cup and Brazil’s third before half-time.
64: Endrick on! The Brazilian teenager came off the bench to make his World Cup debut.
78: offside! Endrick had his goal canceled out due to Rajan’s play.
Surf America!
Cunha threw his trademark celebration twice!
Matheus Cunha celebrates after scoring the first goal.
Vinicius Jr. (left) and Lucas Paqueta (right) celebrate the second goal with Mateus Cunha.
