Matheus Cunha Shines with Two Goals as Brazil Secures 3-0 Win Over Haiti in 2026 World Cup
Matheus Cunha scored twice as Brazil beat Haiti 3-0 in the 2026 World Cup, earning praise as a potential new "number 9" and fulfilling a promise from surfer Italo Ferreira.
- • Matheus Cunha scored two goals in Brazil's 3-0 victory over Haiti in the 2026 World Cup group stage.
- • French newspaper L'Équipe praised Cunha, suggesting he may finally fill Brazil's vacant 'number 9' role since Ronaldo Fenômeno.
- • Coach Carlo Ancelotti started Cunha after Igor Thiago's poor performance against Morocco.
- • Surfer Italo Ferreira promised Cunha surfboards if he scored, a promise fulfilled by Cunha's two goals.
Key details
Brazil delivered a commanding 3-0 victory against Haiti in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with striker Matheus Cunha playing a pivotal role by scoring two crucial goals. The match, held in Philadelphia, saw Cunha don the iconic number 9 jersey, a role Brazil has eagerly sought to fill since Ronaldo Fenômeno's retirement over two decades ago.
French newspaper L'Équipe highlighted Cunha's impressive performance, suggesting that he may be the answer Brazil has long needed as a reliable "number 9." Cunha opened the scoring in the 23rd minute and doubled the lead in the 36th minute, showcasing excellent coordination with his teammates. The decision by Brazil's coach Carlo Ancelotti to start Cunha came after Igor Thiago's subdued display in the tournament opener against Morocco.
In addition to the media acclaim, Brazil's star surfer Italo Ferreira had made a public promise on Globo's live broadcast to gift Cunha surfboards by the end of the year if he scored in the match. With two goals in the bag, Cunha has effectively earned Ferreira's reward.
Ancelotti's confidence in Cunha appears well-placed as the striker demonstrated his ability to lead Brazil's attack, potentially providing stability in a position that has eluded the national team for years.
The win over Haiti not only boosts Brazil's standing in the group but also affirms Cunha’s emerging role as a key player to watch in the tournament. With his sharp finishing and movement, Cunha could prove essential as Brazil aims for further success.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
