Cunha Returns to Brazil XI for Crucial Haiti World Cup Group C Clash

Brazil enters their second Group C fixture of the 2026 FIFA World CupCompetition·FIFA World Cup under pressure, aiming to secure their first victory of the tournament against HaitiTeam·Haiti. Following an uninspiring 1-1 draw against MoroccoTeam·Morocco in their opening match, the five-time champions are looking to ignite their campaign.

Head coach Carlo Ancelotti has made a significant change to the attacking lineup, reinstating Matheus CunhaPlayer·Matheus Cunha to the starting eleven. The former Hertha BSCTeam·Hertha BSC and RB LeipzigTeam·RB Leipzig striker, who featured off the bench against MoroccoTeam·Morocco, is expected to provide a much-needed spark upfront. His inclusion sees Igor ThiagoPlayer·Igor Thiago, who started the previous match, make way as Ancelotti seeks to revitalize the team's offensive output. According to Carlo Ancelotti, the team aims to "develop quality football, with a collective spirit."

The confirmed Brazil lineup features Alisson in goal, protected by a back four of Danilo, captain MarquinhosPlayer·Marquinhos, GabrielPlayer·Gabriel, and Douglas SantosPlayer·Douglas Santos. The midfield will be anchored by CasemiroPlayer·Casemiro, with Bruno Guimarães and Lucas Paquetá providing creative impetus. Upfront, Cunha will be flanked by RaphinhaPlayer·Raphinha and Vinicius JúniorPlayer·Vinicius Júnior, forming a potent attacking trio.

For HaitiTeam·Haiti, this match marks another chapter in their return to the global stage, 52 years after their debut campaign in West Germany. Their 2026 World Cup journey began with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Scotland. Coach Sébastien Migné's side will be led by captain PlacidePlayer·Placide in goal, with a defensive line comprising Arcus, Adé, Delcroix, Duverne, and Experience. The midfield features Casimir, Jean JacquesPlayer·Jean Jacques, Bellegarde, and Providence, supporting lone striker Pierrot.

Currently, Brazil sits third in Group C with one point, while HaitiTeam·Haiti occupies the bottom spot after their opening loss. This encounter is critical for Brazil to improve their standing in what has been described as a "hotly contested Group C." A victory would significantly enhance their chances of advancing to the knockout rounds. Brazil's recent form includes three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five matches, including friendly victories against CroatiaTeam·Croatia, Panama, and EgyptTeam·Egypt, alongside a defeat to France.

Superstar forward Neymar Jr.Player·Neymar Jr., despite being included in Brazil's 26-man squad, remains doubtful for the HaitiTeam·Haiti match as he continues rehabilitation from hamstring and knee injuries. Brazil will conclude their group stage fixtures against Scotland on June 24, 2026.