Brazil crushes Haiti 3-0 in style at world cup

The Brazilian juggernaut rolls on in style

When Brazil last lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy in 1994, ending a 24-year drought, the Seleção’s pragmatic approach drew criticism from critics and fans alike—even from Parreira’s own mother. In football-mad Brazil, victory alone isn’t enough; the joga bonito (beautiful game) must shine through.

The current Seleção under Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti delivered both on Friday night in Philadelphia, dismantling Haiti 3-0 in the first half of their CONCACAF Gold Cup clash.

A tactical masterclass unfolds

Ancelotti made a bold attacking change, replacing Igor Thiago—who started in the 1-1 draw with Morocco—with Manchester United striker Matheus Cunha. The move paid immediate dividends. Just before the first commercial break, Cunha pounced on a miscued clearance from Haiti’s defence, redirecting Vinícius Júnior’s driven cross into the net.

The floodgates opened further when Cunha doubled the lead with a left-footed strike into the top corner, again set up by Vini Jr. His signature surfer’s celebration drew cheers from the Brazilian faithful.

Vinícius Júnior then completed the rout before halftime, exploiting an overcommitted Haitian defensive line with a deft lob from Lucas Paquetá—who looked far sharper than in the opening group-stage match.

Haiti’s resilience meets Brazil’s dominance

The Grenadiers, already down to ten men after a fourth-minute booking, adjusted under Sébastien Migné’s guidance, dropping into a deeper four-man defensive block. This tactical shift temporarily stemmed the tide, though Brazil’s relentless pressure kept the Haitians on the back foot.

Unlike stereotypical underdog tactics of “parking the bus,” Haiti maintained a direct and spirited approach, refusing to collapse. Their first corner of the evening led to a quick exchange between Martin Expérience and Pierrot, testing Brazil’s rearguard.

Alisson Becker stood firm on multiple occasions, including thwarting a second-half header from a Haitian corner, preserving Brazil’s clean sheet.

Absences and tactical dilemmas

Brazil’s attacking rhythm was disrupted by Raphinha’s injury on the right flank—an early substitution that deprived them of one of their most creative outlets. The winger had been in scintillating form at FC Barcelona this season, contributing 34 goals and 22 assists.

Neymar, still recovering, remained on the sidelines in Philadelphia. Ancelotti’s decision to exclude him—despite the veteran’s status—avoided a potential media storm, though it raised questions about forward depth.

The Seleção, five-time world champions, last claimed the trophy in 2002 with the legendary trio of Ronaldo, Rivaldo, and Ronaldinho. Their current campaign, following a disappointing quarterfinal exit in 2022, has been under intense scrutiny. Can they rediscover their swagger and add another star to their crown? The performance against Haiti suggests they’re on the right track—but the journey remains long.

Haiti bows out with dignity

Friday’s heavy defeat marked Haiti’s elimination from the tournament. Their final group-stage clash against Scotland—played just hours earlier—ended in a narrow 1-0 loss. Despite their exit, the Grenadiers acquitted themselves well, particularly against Morocco in the previous match.

Haïti’s previous World Cup outing in 1974 saw them lose all three group games, including a 7-0 thrashing by Poland. Emmanuel Sanon scored both of Haiti’s goals on that occasion. Can someone step up for the final match against Morocco and etch their name into World Cup history?

The stage is set for a fitting finale—one that will be closely followed by Haitian and Moroccan communities across Quebec on Canada Day.