Haiti knocked out as Brazil secures convincing 3-0 triumph

Brazil national football team secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Haiti national football team on Friday in Philadelphia, eliminating Haiti from the World Cup and boosting Brazil’s chances of advancing from the group stage.

Matheus Cunha starred for Brazil with two goals, while Vinícius Júnior contributed a goal and an assist. Haiti, appearing in its first World Cup since 1974, became the first team officially eliminated from the tournament.

Making his first start of the competition, Cunha quickly justified his selection after being used only as a substitute in Brazil’s disappointing 1-1 draw against Morocco national football team. The forward opened the scoring by converting a rebound after Vinícius’ effort was saved by goalkeeper Johny Placide.

Cunha doubled Brazil’s lead later in the first half with a powerful left-footed strike into the top corner after receiving a precise pass from Vinícius. His two goals energized the large Brazilian contingent among the crowd of more than 68,000 spectators at Lincoln Financial Field.

Brazil had an earlier goal from Raphinha ruled out for offside before he was forced off with an injury in the first half. Despite that setback, the South Americans dominated the match.

Vinícius added Brazil’s third goal before halftime, effectively sealing the result and keeping alive the team’s hopes of winning its first World Cup title since 2002.

The atmosphere inside the stadium was vibrant, with Haitian supporters singing traditional chants while Brazilian fans celebrated their nation’s rich football history and paid tribute to legendary football icon Pelé.

Brazil will conclude its Group C campaign against Scotland national football team on Wednesday in Miami Gardens, Florida.

Meanwhile, star forward Neymar missed his second consecutive match due to an ongoing calf injury.