PHILADELPHIA, United States, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Haiti became the first team to be eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as five-time world champion Brazil powered past the Caribbean side 3-0 in their second Group C match here on Friday to move to the top of the group.
With Raphinha, Matheus Cunha and Vinicius Junior leading the attack, Brazil adopted an attack-minded 4-3-3 formation, helping the world No. 6 squad build a commanding 3-0 lead before halftime.
Brazil dominated the opening stages and twice had goals ruled out for offside through Raphinha before Cunha opened the scoring in the 23rd minute. The Manchester United forward struck again in the 36th minute after being set up by Junior to put Brazil firmly in control.
Brazil added a third goal deep into first-half stoppage time when Lucas Paqueta threaded a pass into Junior, who finished with a right-footed strike to make it 3-0.
World No. 82 Haiti improved after halftime and forced Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson into two saves as Brazil eased off the pace following its dominant first half.
The defeat, followed by Morocco's 1-0 victory over Scotland earlier in the day, left Haiti with no mathematical chance of advancing to the knockout stage, making it the first team to be eliminated from the tournament.
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti praised his side's progress after the match.
"I think we played better than in the first game. The quality of our football improved, we created more opportunities and had better defensive control," the Italian said.
Despite the elimination, Haiti coach Sebastien Migne took pride in his team's efforts and stressed the significance of returning to the World Cup after a 52-year absence.
"The players showed that they deserved their place at this World Cup," Migne said. "We must not underestimate what it means for Haiti to return to the biggest stage in world football."
The victory lifted Brazil to the top of Group C on goal difference ahead of Morocco, with both teams on four points. Scotland is third on three points, while Haiti remains bottom without a point.
Brazil will face Scotland, while Morocco will take on Haiti in the final round of Group C matches on June 24. Although eliminated, Haiti will still be seeking its first-ever point in a World Cup finals tournament. ■
