Brazil cruised past Haiti 3-0 in their World Cup opener at Lincoln Financial Field, with Matheus Cunha scoring twice to set the tone for a dominant display.
Brazil arrived in Philadelphia as heavy favorites against Haiti, and they wasted little time proving why. The Seleção controlled possession from the opening whistle, moving the ball with purpose and intent. Haiti's defensive setup looked fragile from the start, and Brazil's attacking players sensed opportunity immediately.
Cunha broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute, firing past Haiti's goalkeeper to give Brazil an early advantage. The striker had barely celebrated when he doubled his tally just 13 minutes later in the 36th minute. Two goals in quick succession shifted the match decisively in Brazil's favor, and Haiti found themselves chasing shadows.
Haiti offered little resistance in attack during the first half. Their shots lacked precision, and they struggled to build any meaningful moves from defense to attack. Brazil's midfield controlled the tempo, with Lucas Paquetá orchestrating play and creating space for the attacking players.
The away side did pick up three yellow cards by half-time, showing their frustration at being outplayed. Cunha's performance drew praise from observers, and Brazil looked capable of scoring more before the interval ended.
Vinicius Junior added a third goal just before half-time in the 45th minute, essentially settling the contest. The Brazilian winger's finish came at the perfect moment, giving his team a commanding three-goal lead heading into the break.
The second half saw Brazil ease off the accelerator. With the match won, they managed the game rather than press for additional goals. Cunha departed after 64 minutes, replaced by fresh legs as Brazil rotated their squad.
Haiti made tactical adjustments but never threatened Alisson's goal seriously. The Brazilian goalkeeper made three saves and barely broke a sweat during the encounter. Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhães controlled the defensive line with ease throughout.
Brazil finished with 57 percent possession and 88 percent passing accuracy, underlining their control. They registered five shots on target compared to Haiti's three, while generating an expected goals figure of 1.5 against their opponents' 0.25.
The scoreline reflected Brazil's clear superiority in every department. They now move into their next World Cup fixture with momentum and confidence. Haiti faces a tough road ahead after this heavy defeat.
