Brazil began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a resounding 5-0 victory over Haiti in Group C at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 20. Neymar was the star of the show, scoring twice and providing an assist as the five-time champions showcased their attacking prowess.
First-half dominance
Brazil took control from the outset, pressing Haiti high up the pitch. The opening goal came in the 12th minute when Vinicius Junior latched onto a through ball from Casemiro and slotted past Haitian goalkeeper Johny Placide. Neymar doubled the lead in the 28th minute with a curling free-kick from 25 yards that left Placide rooted to the spot.
Richarlison made it 3-0 just before halftime, heading in a cross from Danilo. Haiti struggled to create chances, with Brazil's defense marshaled by Marquinhos and Thiago Silva restricting them to long-range efforts.
Second-half continuation
Brazil continued their dominance after the break. Neymar scored his second of the match in the 54th minute, finishing a swift counter-attack that he started himself. The fifth goal came from substitute Gabriel Jesus in the 72nd minute, who tapped in from close range after a deflected shot from Neymar.
According to FIFA statistics, Brazil had 68% possession and 22 shots on goal, compared to Haiti's 3. Haiti's best chance came in the 65th minute when Frantzdy Pierrot forced a save from Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson Becker.
Group C implications
The victory puts Brazil top of Group C with three points, while Haiti remains bottom. The result extends Brazil's unbeaten run in World Cup group stages to 17 matches. Haiti, making their second World Cup appearance, face an uphill battle to advance.
