The fight for qualification positions in Group C of the 2026 World Cup will be open until the last day, but Brazil recovered ground at the right time. The team led by Carlo Ancelotti beat Haiti 3-0 in Philadelphia and left behind part of the doubts that had arisen after the draw achieved in their World Cup debut against Morocco.

The result allowed Canarinha to reach four points and place itself at the top of the classification, equal in units with Morocco. Scotland remains with three points, while Haiti was left with no chance of advancing after its second defeat of the tournament.

Although the final score reflected a wide difference, the start of the match presented some complications for the South American team. Haiti opted for a five-man defensive line and managed to close spaces for several minutes. The strategy designed by Sébastien Migné sought to limit the influence of the Brazilian attackers and, in certain passages of the first half, managed to make their rival uncomfortable.

However, Brazil's offensive insistence began to generate cracks in the Haitian system. Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha found space on the sides and began to demand a defense that little by little was losing solidity.

Vinícius leads the reaction and Cunha responds with goals

The match changed course at 23 minutes. An action carried out by Vinícius Junior inside the area ended with an intervention by Johny Placide that left the ball without an owner. Matheus Cunha appeared in the right place to take advantage of the rebound and send the ball into the back of the net.

The goal had an immediate effect on the development of the match. Brazil gained calm and began to play more fluid football. Cunha, one of the changes made by Ancelotti compared to the debut against Morocco, appeared again before the break to extend the lead.

The second score came after an assist from Vinícius. The forward received the space and defined with a powerful shot that left the Haitian goalkeeper with no options. The attacker's performance ended up justifying the coaching staff's decision to include him from the beginning.

There was still time for one more intervention by the Real Madrid footballer. Already in the stoppage of the first half, Lucas Paquetá filtered a deep pass and Vinícius calmly finished to establish the 3-0 before the break.

The second half had less intensity. Brazil generated new opportunities to increase the difference, including a shot against the crossbar by Gabriel Martinelli, a clear chance by Douglas Costa and a shot by Endrick that ended up being disallowed for offside.

On the other hand, Haiti continued looking for a goal despite knowing that their continuity in the World Cup was compromised. The Caribbean team tried to score until the end, although without success.

The victory left a favorable outlook for Brazil ahead of the final round of Group C, although also a concern. Raphinha left the field of play during the first half after feeling pain in his right thigh, a situation that must be evaluated before the game against Scotland.

At the same time, Morocco will face Haiti in duels that will define the fate of the three teams that still have a chance to advance.