Matheus Cunha

Matheus Cunha is a Brazilian international forward known for his versatility, ability to operate across the attacking line, and an eye for goal in tight spaces. Born in Joao Pessoa in 1999, he developed through Brazilian youth football and moved to Europe via Sion in Switzerland, then RB Leipzig and Hertha Berlin, before joining Atlético de Madrid in January 2022. He subsequently moved to the English Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he became one of the division's most productive attackers, combining goals and assists from a free-roaming forward role.

Cunha established himself as a regular in the Brazilian national team under successive coaches, recognised as a capable deputy and starter across the attacking line. At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Neymar sidelined by a calf strain for the second successive group match, Cunha started as Brazil's focal point against Haiti in Philadelphia on 20 June. He scored twice, in the 23rd and 36th minutes, as Brazil won 3-0 to move to four points in Group c and eliminate the tournament debutants. Vinicius Junior added the third in first-half stoppage time.

The double was the clearest evidence yet that Carlo Ancelotti's attacking system functions without Neymar. Cunha's performances in the group stage put him in the frame for a starting role should Neymar's return remain uncertain. Brazil face Scotland on 24 June to close out Group c.