However, amidst the debates about the true strength of the Selecao, one thing has remained almost unchanged after the first two matches: Vinicius Jr. is still the biggest difference-maker.
Against Haiti, Vinicius continued to be the focal point of Brazil's attack. The Real Madrid star directly contributed to all three goals. He created the play that led to the opening goal, assisted Matheus Cunha for the second goal, and then scored the goal himself to seal the 3-0 victory.
This wasn't the first time Vinicius had been the game-changer for Brazil at this World Cup . In their opening match against Morocco, when the Selecao delivered one of their most lackluster performances since coach Ancelotti took over, it was the number 7 who scored the equalizer, securing a valuable point.
Brazil has only scored 4 goals in two matches. Remarkably, Vinicius has been involved in all 4 of those goals. In a context where the team's collective play is still not truly stable, the decisive moments for the yellow-shirted team continue to come from the feet of the 25-year-old star.
Of course, Matheus Cunha also deserves praise. The decision to include this striker in the starting lineup instead of Igor Thiago proved effective. Cunha scored two goals and created more positive movement in the defensive area. His partnership with Vinicius offered promising signs for Brazil's attack.
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However, that was just one match against Haiti. Cunha had an excellent performance, but it's too early to say whether Brazil has found the solution to their attacking problems.
The 3-0 victory might give the impression that Brazil is back on track. However, many international newspapers still maintain that Brazil doesn't yet truly look like a champion.
The Guardian noted that Ancelotti's team controlled the game much better than in the draw against Morocco. However, their attacking play still lacked fluidity. Brazil frequently used long passes aimed at Vinicius and Cunha, many of which resulted in offside.
The question of Brazil's tactical identity under coach Ancelotti remains unanswered. The South American team won against Haiti thanks to superior individual quality, more than to a well-functioning system.
That's why all eyes continue to be on Vinicius. Neymar is unavailable. Raphinha just suffered an injury in the match against Haiti. Casemiro, Paqueta, and many other key players haven't yet made a significant enough impact on the team's overall play.
Brazil remains one of the top contenders for the 2026 World Cup title. However, after the first two matches, the biggest difference hasn't been tactical adjustments or new personnel changes. It's still Vinicius, the player who carries the role of the Selecao's number one star.
Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/the-thao/worldcup-2026/vinicius-canh-en-cua-brazil-1045363
