Brazil took a big step toward the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Haiti, as Gabriel Magalhães completed the full match and Gabriel Martinelli made his tournament debut.
After being held to a 1-1 draw by Morocco national football team in their opening game, the Selecao knew they needed a win to put themselves in a stronger position — and they delivered with authority.
A brace from Matheus Cunha and a well-taken strike from Vinícius Júnior just before half-time sealed the victory in Philadelphia, giving Brazil national football team their first win of the tournament.
At the back, Gabriel once again started in central defence under coach Carlo Ancelotti and played the full 90 minutes, helping Brazil secure their first clean sheet of the competition. It marked the Arsenal defender’s 19th appearance for his country and another composed performance on the big stage.
Martinelli, meanwhile, came off the bench in the 64th minute, replacing Lucas Paquetá to make his first appearance at this year’s tournament and his second World Cup overall.
The Arsenal winger nearly made an instant impact. Just minutes after coming on, he linked up brilliantly with Vinicius Jr and smashed an effort against the crossbar. The move was eventually ruled offside, but it was a sharp reminder of the threat he brings.
With four points from their opening two games, Brazil now sit top of their group on goal difference ahead of Morocco. A draw against Scotland national football team in Miami on Wednesday would be enough to secure their place in the Round of 32.
Elsewhere, Saturday promises more World Cup action involving Arsenal stars. Viktor Gyökeres will aim to continue his fine form when Sweden national football team take on Netherlands national football team, while Kai Havertz looks to add to his two-goal tally as Germany national football team face Ivory Coast national football team.
And for Piero Hincapié and Ecuador national football team, the mission is simple: get points on the board against Curaçao national football team and keep their World Cup hopes alive.
