For the first time in this World Cup, Brazil looked like a team that could go all the way.
The Selecao put in a confident and entertaining performance to defeat Haiti 3-0, and while the scoreline tells part of the story, it was the manner of the victory that will please Brazilian fans the most. After several months of mixed performances and unanswered questions, Brazil finally showed the kind of football people expect from them.
Source
The biggest reason for that was Vinicius Jr.
The Real Madrid star was involved in every goal Brazil scored and looked dangerous whenever he got the ball. His speed, movement, and confidence were simply too much for the Haitian defence to handle.
Brazil actually thought they had taken the lead early in the game when Raphinha found the net, but the goal was ruled out for offside. It didn't matter much because the breakthrough arrived shortly afterward.
The first goal was a bit scrappy. Vinicius forced a save from the goalkeeper, and after a bit of confusion in the box, Matheus Cunha was in the right place at the right time to poke the ball over the line. It wasn't spectacular, but Brazil didn't care.
Cunha's second goal was much more impressive. Vinicius picked him out with a clever pass, and the striker timed his run perfectly before calmly finishing past the goalkeeper. It was the kind of goal that every striker loves to score and a reminder of why Cunha is pushing hard to keep his place in the starting lineup.
Before halftime, Vinicius got the goal his performance deserved. Lucas Paqueta spotted his run and delivered an excellent pass into space. Vinicius raced onto it and finished neatly into the corner to make it 3-0.
The second half was much quieter as Brazil comfortably controlled the game. Carlo Ancelotti took the opportunity to make several substitutions, giving other players some minutes. Young striker Endrick thought he had scored after a smart finish, but his effort was ruled out for offside. Gabriel Martinelli also came close when he struck the crossbar.
To Haiti's credit, they never stopped fighting. This was their first World Cup appearance in decades, and although they were outclassed by a stronger opponent, they showed plenty of determination and spirit throughout the match.
For Brazil, though, this felt like more than just another group-stage win. It felt like a statement. The confidence is growing, the attack is clicking, and if Vinicius continues to perform at this level, Brazil could become one of the most dangerous teams left in the tournament.
Posted Using INLEO