Matheus Cunha and Tyler Fletcher were on opposing sides during Brazil's World Cup clash with Scotland in Miami on Wednesday night, but the Manchester United teammates shared a heartwarming moment before the match. Cunha's Brazil secured a 3-0 victory to top Group C, while Scotland's defeat left them relying on other results to advance.
Pre-Match Gesture Wins Hearts
Prior to the match, as players exchanged handshakes, Cunha made a point of giving Fletcher a warm hug. The gesture sparked reactions from fans on social media, with one United supporter writing: "United brotherhood," and another adding: "Lovely indeed. Teammates now facing each other in a fierce battle." A third simply commented: "Lovely moment that."
Fletcher, 19, did not feature in the match after being called up to replace Napoli star Billy Gilmour, who was ruled out of the World Cup with a knee injury suffered in Scotland's final home friendly before the tournament. Fletcher made his senior debut in a friendly against Curacao in May and has been an unused substitute for Scotland's last three matches against Haiti, Morocco, and Brazil.
Brazil Dominates with Cunha's Goal
Brazil took an early lead in the seventh minute after a defensive error by Scott McKenna allowed Vinicius Junior to score the opener. The Real Madrid star struck again just before half-time, and Cunha added a third goal in the 76th minute to seal the win. It was Cunha's third goal in as many games. He was substituted shortly after, making way for Neymar, who made his first appearance of the tournament after recovering from a calf injury.
With the victory, Brazil secured top spot in Group C and qualified for the knockout stage, where they are set to face Japan in the round of 32.
Scotland's Uncertain Future
For Scotland, the defeat was damaging. The expanded 48-team format means only the top eight third-placed sides progress to the round of 32. Scotland finished third in their group and must wait until Sunday to learn their fate, depending on results from other groups. Steve Clarke's side has only themselves to blame after costly defensive errors set the tone for a punishing evening.
Fletcher, who may not get another chance to appear on the biggest stage if Scotland's campaign ends early, has been named on the bench for the Tartan Army's last three matches. The 19-year-old's only cap so far came in a friendly against Curacao.
