Cunha double fires Brazil past Haiti to top Group C

Brazil finally clicked into gear with a commanding 3-0 victory over Haiti in Group C, thanks to a first-half blitz led by Matheus Cunha. The Seleção, who had labored to a 1-1 draw with Morocco in their opener, were a different animal at the Estádio Nacional.

First-half fireworks

Cunha, the Wolverhampton Wanderers forward, needed just 14 minutes to break the deadlock. He latched onto a clever through ball from Bruno Guimarães and slotted coolly past the Haiti goalkeeper. Four minutes later, he doubled Brazil's lead — this time a crisp finish from a Neymar cutback. Vinícius Júnior made it three just before the interval, curling a beauty into the top corner after a quick counter-attack. The stadium erupted; Brazil were suddenly irresistible.

Haiti's heartbreak

For Haiti, the dream is over. Corbeau, as they are known, lost their opening match 1-0 to Scotland and now cannot reach the knockout phase. They battled gamely but lacked the quality to contain Brazil's front line. Coach Patrice Neveu will rue missed chances early on — a header wide from Duckens Nazon could have changed the momentum.

What it means for Group C

Brazil now top the group with four points, a point ahead of Scotland, who face Morocco later. A win against Scotland in their final fixture would secure top spot. But the real takeaway is the performance: this wasn't the stuttering Brazil of the Morocco game. The midfield pressed higher, the full-backs overlapped, and the attacking trio of Vinícius, Cunha, and Neymar looked like the world-beaters everyone expects.

Looking ahead

Brazil's final group game against Scotland is now pivotal. Win and they likely avoid a tougher opponent in the round of 16. For Haiti, pride is on the line against Morocco. But for the neutrals, it's cheering to see a vintage Brazil surge. If they carry this form forward, they could be dark horses for the title.