Global media outlets widely praised the Brazilian national team following their commanding 3-0 victory over Haiti on Friday, June 19, during the second round of the 2026 World Cup group stage.
International newspapers shifted their focus toward the tactical evolution of the squad under manager Carlo Ancelotti, identifying forward Matheus Cunha as a breakthrough player for the tournament.
The performance reportedly leaves Brazil with a 99.95% chance of advancing to the next round ahead of their final Group C match against Scotland on June 24.
Media Reactions
Spanish newspaper Marca emphasized the joy returning to the squad, pointing out that Ancelotti's lineup changes paid off immediately through the Manchester United forward's offensive contributions and connection with teammates.
"O Brasil de Ancelotti já está se divertindo" headlined Marca.
The Spanish sports publication praised the Italian manager's tactical decisions, noting that the adjustments worked particularly well with Cunha, who celebrated his goals in a flamboyant style.
"Os ajustes deram certo, sobretudo com Matheus Cunha, que marcou os dois primeiros gols e comemorou com uma festinha extravagante, no estilo surfista" reported Marca.
The media outlet further noted that the relaxed celebration aligned perfectly with the on-field chemistry shared among Vinicius Junior and Lucas Paqueta.
"Uma comemoração descontraída, bem brasileira, em perfeita sintonia com Vinicius e Lucas Paquetá" complemented Marca.
In Italy, Gazzetta Dello Sport focused on the structural refinement of the team, praising the defensive stability brought by Danilo, who replaced Ibañez, and the intelligent positioning of Cunha.
"O que era necessário não era uma revolução, mas uma reformulação direcionada" analyzed Gazzetta Dello Sport.
The Italian publication noted that the defensive backline exuded a different level of security, while celebrating the emergence of a highly tactical center-forward.
"Danilo na defesa exala segurança diferente, e a grande notícia é que o Brasil encontrou seu centroavante.
O novo Cunha é a imagem de quem joga como um meio-campista, se movimenta com rara inteligência tática e marca gols" continued Gazzetta Dello Sport.
The news outlet concluded by urging football fans to keep a close eye on the attacking duo after they combined effectively for the goals.
"Os dois primeiros foram dele, inspirados por um chute desviado e um passe de Vinicius, que completou a façanha com o terceiro, após uma assistência brilhante de um Paquetá renascido.
Fiquem de olho nesses dois" complemented Gazzetta Dello Sport.
Spanish daily AS agreed that Cunha has solidified his role as Ancelotti's primary number nine for the tournament, while also noting that young prospect Endrick made his highly anticipated World Cup debut.
"Consolidou sua posição como o camisa nove de Carletto para o torneio.
Endrick finalmente fez sua estreia em Copas do Mundo, para a alegria de nação que o considera sua última esperança" stated AS.
Meanwhile, French newspaper L'Equipe drew a parallel to the opening round but reversed the roles, stating that the Brazilian team completely suffocated their opponents this time.
"Sufocados e dominados desde o início pelo Marrocos, impuseram um pesadelo semelhante ao Haiti" raised L'Equipe.
