Cunha nets third World Cup goal as Brazil down Scotland 3-0 to top Group C

Matheus Cunha continued his impressive World Cup 2026 campaign by scoring Brazil’s third goal in a commanding 3-0 victory over Scotland on Wednesday, a result that confirmed the Selecão as Group C winners heading into the Round of 32.

The Wolverhampton Wanderers forward, 27, played 75 minutes and was at the heart of Brazil’s best moments throughout. His goal came on the hour mark when Bruno Guimarães unselfishly picked him out, and Cunha coolly slotted past the goalkeeper. Earlier in the match he had an effort cleared off the line by Lewis Ferguson, underlining his constant threat to the Scottish defence.

Brazilian media were generous in their assessment. Publication Veja described Cunha as an “intelligent player” who is “well-positioned” at all times, highlighting his third goal of the tournament as evidence of his growing influence. GE Globo awarded him a 7.5/10 rating — notably high by their standards — writing that 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,” and crediting him with recovering possession via a sliding tackle that led directly to Brazil’s second goal.

ESPN Brasil rated him 6.5/10 and noted that, despite his goals, his off-ball contribution may be his most valuable asset, helping Brazil maintain their tactical shape.

For Scotland, former Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay was the standout performer in the second half after a quiet opening 45 minutes. McTominay won three duels and registered three shots on target, including a header that forced Alisson Becker into a scrambling save and a poked effort from a recycled corner that the goalkeeper held. His efforts, however, were not enough to trouble a well-organised Brazil side.

Brazil will next face the runner-up of Group F in the new Round of 32, with Japan, the Netherlands, and Sweden all still in contention for that spot as the group remains unresolved.