Brazilian media have heaped praise on Matheus Cunha following the Manchester United star’s performance against Scotland in a 3-0 World Cup 2026 victory on Wednesday night. The result secured Brazil’s place at the top of Group C heading into the knockout stages.
Cunha Scores Third Goal of Tournament
The 27-year-old played 75 minutes and netted Brazil’s third goal of the night, his third of the tournament. He showcased excellent link-up play, had an effort cleared off the line by Lewis Ferguson, and then coolly slotted past the goalkeeper on the hour mark after Bruno Guimaraes unselfishly picked him out.
McTominay Impresses but Falls Short
Former Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay, now playing for Scotland, became his side’s most threatening player after a slow opening 45 minutes. He won three duels and registered three shots on target, including a header that Alisson Becker scrambled to keep out and a poked effort from a recycled corner that was held by the goalkeeper.
Brazilian Press Praise Cunha
Brazilian publication Veja called Cunha an “intelligent player” who is “well-positioned” always, lauding him for scoring his third goal at this World Cup. GE Globo gave him a rating of 7.5/10, writing: “He started scoring again and was important in other ways. He was very combative without the ball and helped in the build-up play, dropping back a little to provide passing options and act as a target man. Brazil’s second goal came after he recovered the ball with a sliding tackle at the edge of the penalty area.”
ESPN Brasil gave him a rating of 6.5/10, stating that despite his goals, he is even more important off the ball than on it, as he helps get the team's tactics right.
What's Next for Brazil
Cunha and Brazil will next face the runner-up of Group F in the new Round of 32. That could be Japan, the Netherlands, or Sweden, given the group is still wide open.
