Brazil earned their first win of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Haiti in Philadelphia, but concerns remain about whether the five-time world champions have rediscovered the level of performance expected from one of football’s most successful nations.

The Selecao produced an impressive first-half display, with Matheus Cunha scoring twice and Vinicius Jr adding a well-taken goal to give Brazil a commanding lead before the interval. The result also provided Brazil with their first clean sheet of the tournament and sparked celebrations among supporters dressed in the team’s iconic yellow shirts.

However, despite the convincing scoreline, Brazil’s second-half performance raised fresh questions. Facing a Haiti side ranked more than 80 places below them in FIFA’s world rankings, Brazil failed to register a single shot on target after halftime.

In contrast, Haiti showed determination despite their elimination from the tournament, recording seven attempts in the second half compared to Brazil’s two. The defeat confirmed Haiti as the first team to be knocked out of the 2026 World Cup.

Brazil entered the match under pressure following a disappointing 1-1 draw against Morocco in their opening Group C fixture in New Jersey. With four points from two games, Brazil remain well placed to advance to the round of 32, but their performances have fallen short of the standards set by fellow contenders Argentina and France, both of whom have impressed in the United States.

Memories of Brazil’s rich footballing history were evident in Philadelphia, where 2002 World Cup winner Ronaldinho was present among the spectators and fans waved replica World Cup trophies in the stands. Yet despite flashes of attacking quality, many observers believe the true Brazil has yet to emerge at this tournament.

As the competition progresses, supporters will hope the Selecao can build on their first victory and rediscover the consistency and flair that have long defined Brazilian football on the world stage.