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A 3-0 victory over Haiti came as a much-needed boost for Brazil after an unconvincing and unbalanced display in their opening fixture. While the established stars were central to the performance for the Selecao, it was an improvised tactical adjustment that ultimately unlocked the opposition defence.

Matheus Cunha, usually deployed as a winger for Manchester United, was handed the role of centre-forward in Philadelphia. Although Raphinha and Vinicius Jr dominated the early exchanges, it was the 27-year-old Cunha who broke the deadlock, dropping deep to create space and eventually forcing the ball over the line with the help of Haitian defender Hannes Delcroix.

The winger-turned-striker soon doubled his tally, timing a clever run behind a lethargic Haiti backline before firing home an excellent finish with confidence, effectively putting the contest to bed.

Cunha’s second goal showcased his composure as he finished superbly with his weaker foot to hand Brazil a comfortable two-goal cushion. Brazil barely needed to step into second gear and soon added a third when Vinicius Jr sprinted clear to meet Lucas Paqueta’s precise through ball and slotted in a composed finish.

For Cunha, who had been an unused substitute in the opener against Morocco, the outing served as a strong audition for the number nine role. His intelligent movement created space for his teammates, allowing Brazil’s star wingers to flourish on either flank.

However, it’s worth noting that this performance came against one of the lowest-ranked sides in the competition, and Cunha’s brace represented just his second and third goals in the iconic yellow shirt. Although he has demonstrated a clinical touch at club level, questions remain about whether Cunha can consistently deliver as Brazil’s leading striker against stronger opponents. Can he offer the presence of a traditional centre-forward or provide a reliable outlet when Brazil face more formidable opposition?

Despite the lingering uncertainty, this was undeniably a step forward. Yet sterner tests await, with Scotland up next in the group stage and a possible last-32 fixture against Japan looming.

Nevertheless, any talk of Brazil finally solving their striker dilemma may have to be paused for now. Raphinha’s suspected hamstring injury, which forced him off before half-time, could prompt further reshuffling. Manager Carlo Ancelotti declined to confirm any long-term solution to the striker issue in his post-match comments, preferring to remain non-committal.

Ancelotti explained that Raphinha’s substitution was precautionary due to tightness, but if the Barcelona winger is ruled out of upcoming matches, Cunha might revert to the right flank. That scenario could open the door for another forward to lead the line.

Real Madrid youngster Endrick, who finished last season on loan at Lyon, remains a fan favourite. The loudest cheers at Lincoln Financial Field were reserved for the 19-year-old when he replaced Cunha late in the match, and again when the stadium announcer read out his name.

Endrick even found the net himself with a well-taken strike, though it was ruled out for offside. The brief cameo nonetheless hinted at the immense potential that has earned him high praise from Ancelotti, who previously labelled him an “extraordinary talent”.

Opportunities have been scarce for the teenager under Ancelotti’s tenure. He missed selection for Brazil’s final four friendlies in 2025 before featuring for 14 minutes against Croatia and 45 minutes each against Panama and Egypt ahead of the tournament. His record of five goals in 16 Ligue 1 appearances may not yet convince the manager to make him the focal point of the attack, and he did not feature at all in the draw with Morocco.

Still, Endrick’s lively presence in Philadelphia offered a glimpse of what he could provide. His movement and finishing instincts make him a compelling alternative to Cunha or Igor Thiago, especially with Raphinha’s fitness in doubt.

Ancelotti has previously stated that he intends to “bring Endrick on at the right moment” and that the youngster “will be important in this World Cup.” With the Italian coach still fine-tuning his starting XI and uncertainty persisting within the Brazilian camp, that moment for Endrick might arrive sooner than expected.