Brazil 3-0 Haiti: Cunha’s First-Half Double Powers Seleção to Win in World Cup Opener

Philadelphia, PA — Brazil kicked off their 2026 World Cup campaign in emphatic fashion, grinding out a 3-0 victory over Haiti in Group C at Lincoln Financial Field. The five-time champions asserted their authority from the very first whistle, with Matheus Cunha stealing the show in a commanding first-half display.

The breakthrough came in the 23rd minute when Cunha, sharp and clinical, pounced on a loose ball in the box after a well-worked team move, firing home to send the Brazilian faithful into raptures. Just 13 minutes later, he struck again—this time with a composed finish following a clever through-ball—to give Brazil a two-goal cushion and effectively putting the game out of reach before halftime.

The second half saw no drop in intensity. Brazil continued to dominate possession and territory, and it was Vinícius Júnior who wrapped up the scoring in the 48th minute. The pacey attacker slotted home low to complete the rout.

Haiti, despite showing flashes of resilience, were consistently outmuscled and outthought by a Brazil side that looked every bit the tournament favourite. Their inability to cope with Brazil’s relentless pressing and fluid attacking transitions left them chasing shadows for much of the evening.

For Haiti, this was a harsh introduction to the World Cup stage—facing one of the most formidable teams in the competition. They’ll need to regroup quickly as they prepare for tougher tests ahead in Group C.

Brazil, meanwhile, have sent a clear message: they’re serious about reclaiming global supremacy. With a clean sheet and three goals in the bag, they’ve set the tone early. Their next fixture looms as a chance to build on this momentum and cement their status as genuine contenders.