Brazilian media's comments about Matheus Cunha at World Cup speak volumes for Man Utd

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Brazilian media were full of admiration for Matheus Cunha following the Manchester United forward's standout World Cup 2026 display against Haiti . The 27-year-old netted twice in a commanding 3-0 win.

Carlo Ancelotti's squad had been held to a 1-1 draw in their opening fixture of this summer's tournament against Morocco . They were therefore desperate to make a statement when they faced Haiti, who are ranked 87th in the current FIFA men's world rankings, in the early hours of Saturday morning for those watching in the United Kingdom .

Brazil delivered on this occasion, with United striker Cunha breaking the deadlock after a sluggish opening 23 minutes . Buoyed by that opener, the five-time world champions doubled their advantage through Cunha once more in the 36th minute. Deep into first-half stoppage time, Vinicius Junior added a third.

The second half was comfortably seen out and the match concluded 3-0 in Philadelphia . Brazilian media were particularly effusive in their praise of Cunha, showering him with acclaim and declaring him both the present and future of the Selecao's attack.

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Brentford's Igor Thiago led the Brazilian line in their opening fixture against Morocco, but was replaced by Cunha for the Haiti clash to remarkable effect. Brazilian newspaper Correio Braziliense heaped praise on manager Ancelotti for the tactical switch and on Cunha for his outstanding display.

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A report read: "The Italian [Ancelotti] has crossed the Atlantic and transformed the 27-year-old [Cunha] from Paraiba into one of the key players for the national team.

"The goals scored in the 23rd and 36th minutes of the first half were Cunha's first under Ancelotti's command. The striker became the 15th different player to score in the Ancelotti era.

"He showed why he is considered indispensable. Although he wears the No. 9 shirt, he is far from being a classic centre forward. He leaves the area, participates in the build-up play and brings the different sectors closer together.

"In his first game as a starter in a World Cup, however, he was also opportunistic like a true goalscorer. In 2022, Richarlison scored two against Serbia. This time, it was Cunha's turn to take centre stage."

Elsewhere, O Globo invited its writers and columnists to deliver their verdicts on Brazil's standout performer during the 3-0 victory. While several chose Vinicius Junior, Cunha emerged as a firm favourite among the panel.

One writer claimed: "Matheus Cunha. He came into the team and did everything that was expected of him after a great season with Manchester United.

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"He helped to give fluidity and movement to the attack. He clicked with Vini and showed opportunism. He has to be an absolute starter for this team."

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