Matheus Cunha Emerges as Brazil’s Essential Striker in World Cup 2026

Brazil’s national football team, coached by Carlo Ancelotti, has found an unexpected key player in Matheus Cunha during the 2026 World Cup. Despite public and media preference for stars like Neymar and the young sensation Endrick, Cunha was given the number 9 jersey and a starting role by Ancelotti, who prioritized team needs over popular demand. Cunha scored twice in Brazil’s 3-0 win over Haiti and played a pivotal role in the 3-0 victory against Scotland, demonstrating his unique style as a "false nine" who drops deep to create space and opportunities for teammates like Vinicius Junior and Bruno Guimarães.

Ancelotti remained calm amid criticism following Brazil’s 1-1 draw against Morocco, urging patience and recalling past World Cup upsets where teams recovered to win the tournament. Cunha’s tactical contribution is crucial to Brazil’s pressing game, with the team forcing 108 turnovers in the group stage alone. His wave-like goal celebration symbolizes his ability to "ride the waves" of pressure and criticism, a trait admired by Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazário, who publicly endorsed Cunha by comparing his celebration to his own from the 2002 World Cup.

Looking ahead, Brazil faces Japan in the round of 32, but the challenge has intensified with the injury of key midfielder Raphinha. Ancelotti highlighted Cunha’s versatility and importance in disrupting opponents’ defensive structures. Cunha’s role as a stabilizing force and playmaker is seen as vital for Brazil’s pursuit of their sixth World Cup title, a trophy they have not won since 2002. This approach marks a shift from relying on flashy individual talent to a more cohesive and strategic team dynamic led by Cunha’s unheralded but essential presence.