Brazil finds its rhythm again

Brazil cruised to a 3-0 victory over Haiti on Friday, eliminating the Caribbean side from the tournament and reigniting optimism after a frustrating opening match against Morocco.

A brace from Matheus Cunha and a goal from Vinícius Júnior helped the Seleção secure its first win of the tournament and climb to the top of Group C.

The result leaves Brazil and Morocco level on four points, while Scotland sits third with three. Haiti, meanwhile, is officially eliminated after suffering its second defeat. Qualification from the group will be decided on the final matchday, when Brazil faces Scotland and Morocco takes on Haiti.

Haiti entered the match with a defensive approach, deploying five players across the back line in an attempt to contain Brazil's attacking talent. For a brief period, the strategy succeeded in slowing down the South Americans.

Even so, Vinícius and Raphinha — who had a goal ruled out for offside in the 11th minute — repeatedly found space against the packed Haitian defense.

Matheus Cunha breaks the resistance

As the first half progressed, Haiti became more ambitious and started spending longer periods in possession. The underdogs even managed to push forward and test Brazil's defensive organization.

That willingness to attack ultimately created the openings Brazil needed.

In the 23rd minute, Vinícius burst into the penalty area and forced a save from goalkeeper Johny Placide. The rebound fell perfectly for Matheus Cunha, who reacted quickest to slot home the opener from close range.

The Manchester United striker was one of Carlo Ancelotti's key changes after the disappointing draw against Morocco, replacing Igor Thiago in the starting lineup.

The goal lifted the pressure that had been surrounding Brazil since the opening match. Cunha doubled the advantage in the 36th minute after being played through by Vinícius. His powerful finish left Placide with no chance and put Brazil firmly in control.

Vinícius seals a dominant performance

Haiti's defensive structure continued to unravel as the half progressed, and Brazil added a third goal in stoppage time.

Once again, Vinícius was at the center of the action. The Real Madrid star collected a perfectly weighted pass from Lucas Paquetá, rounded Placide with ease, and calmly finished while the Haitian defenders struggled to recover.

It was a fitting reward for a player who had played a decisive role in all three goals and constantly troubled Haiti throughout the match.

For Ancelotti, Vinícius' performance was one of the most encouraging signs of the evening as Brazil produced the type of display many expected before the tournament began.

A comfortable second half but a worrying injury

With a three-goal lead, Brazil approached the second half with far less urgency.

The Seleção still created several opportunities to increase the margin, including a strike off the crossbar from Gabriel Martinelli, a clear chance for Douglas Costa, and a goal from Endrick that was ruled out for a marginal offside decision.

Haiti, aware that its World Cup journey was nearing its end, continued searching for a consolation goal that would have provided a memorable moment for its supporters.

Despite the comfortable victory, Brazil left Philadelphia with one major concern. Raphinha was forced off during the first half after suffering discomfort in his right thigh, creating an injury scare ahead of the decisive final group-stage match against Scotland.

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