By Dwayne Ferreira.
Vinicius Junior scores twice as Brazil defeat Haiti 3-0, moving top of World Cup Group C and taking a major step towards the knockout stage.
A Vinicius Junior double powered Brazil to a commanding 3-0 victory over Haiti as Carlo Ancelotti’s team moved to the top of FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C.
Brazil had opened the tournament with a 1-1 draw against Morocco, placing added importance on their second group fixture. Ancelotti responded by bringing Matheus Cunha and Danilo into his starting line-up.
Haiti arrived determined to recover from a narrow 1-0 defeat against Scotland. Sébastien Migné’s team defended bravely and attempted to make the occasion uncomfortable for the five-time world champions.
Brazil controlled possession from the opening stages, with Lucas Paquetá, Bruno Guimarães and Casemiro establishing authority in midfield. Raphinha and Vinicius stretched Haiti’s defensive line, while Cunha provided movement through the centre.
Vinicius eventually converted Brazil’s territorial control into a breakthrough. Paquetá helped create the opening, continuing the understanding the pair developed during their time in Flamengo’s youth system.
Haiti remained competitive and refused to collapse after falling behind. Johny Placide and the defenders in front of him worked relentlessly, while Frantzdy Pierrot attempted to offer an outlet whenever the Caribbean side regained possession.
Brazil’s pressure, however, was too sustained. Vinicius struck again to complete his brace and give Ancelotti’s team a far more comfortable position.
The Real Madrid forward’s second goal also moved him into the tournament’s early Golden Boot conversation. His direct running, positioning and improved composure repeatedly exposed a Haitian defence that had initially resisted with discipline.
Cunha completed the scoring as Brazil’s superior depth began to show. Paquetá was again influential in the development of the move, contributing both creatively and defensively during one of Brazil’s most balanced performances under Ancelotti.
The clean sheet was also significant after questions followed the opening draw. Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhães controlled the central defensive areas, while Alisson was protected from sustained pressure.
The result moved Brazil to four points and strengthened their position in Group C. Morocco also remain strongly placed after defeating Scotland, setting up an important final round of fixtures.
Brazil will face Scotland in Miami on June 24, with qualification and first place in the group still to be confirmed. Neymar, who missed the opening two games with a calf problem, could be available after returning to full training.
Haiti conclude their group campaign against Morocco. Their knockout prospects are now extremely difficult, but their performances against Scotland and Brazil have demonstrated resilience on their return to the World Cup for the first time since 1974.
MATCH SUMMARY
Brazil – 3
Vinicius Junior 2
Matheus Cunha
Haiti – 0
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026, Group C
Result: Brazil won 3-0
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