Matheus Cunha: Brazil media rate Man United star’s performance after World Cup win

Brazil’s media were disappointed with Matheus Cunha’s display during their 2-1 victory over Japan.

The Manchester United player started the match but wasn’t able to make a meaningful impact up top on Monday

As a result, he was taken off just after the hour mark in what was a frustrating display for the 27-year-old.

Brazil’s media was not kind to Cunha, insisting he “struggled” against the Japanese before he was taken off.

Cunha had been one of Brazil’s stars of the tournament in the group stage and found the net three times.

However, his place in the starting XI for the round of 16 may now be under threat.

Brazil media slam Matheus Cunha for being ‘below his recent level’ vs Japan

Cunha is no doubt under pressure at the 2026 World Cup.

Brazil are expected to have a good tournament, and the Man United star is arguably the country’s best striker.

However, when his country needed him, he couldn’t produce the magic needed to change the tide of the game in the round of 32, with Carlo Ancelotti forced to look at other options on the bench.

Upon reviewing his performance, Terra gave him a six rating before writing: “He fought hard against the defenders, but struggled to finish. Like Vini Jr., he was below his recent level of performance.”

How bad was Cunha vs Japan?

According to Fotmob on 29 June, while Cunha’s performance wasn’t awful, it was certainly not anything to shout about.

Overall, he had three shots, with only one hitting the target, producing an xG of 0.19. On top of this, he did not create a single chance, failed to complete any of his dribbles and lost all of his aerial duels.

However, he did manage to complete 100 per cent of his passes, win one ground duel and have two touches in the opposition box.

For any Man United staff watching, this will have no doubt been a concern ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

Michael Carrick would have hoped that many of his players would return from the 2026 World Cup in form, ready for a massive season ahead as they return to the Champions League.

Nevertheless, it remains to be seen if Cunha can turn his form around for the round of 16 or if he will end the World Cup out of form.