Brazil President Lula jokes about Neymar as Ancelotti fields Cunha in World Cup match

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti started striker Matheus Cunha in the World Cup 2026 match against Haiti. Cunha scored twice, first in the 23rd minute and again twelve minutes later, securing a 1‑1 draw for Brazil.

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva mocked the inclusion of injured star Neymar, who has not yet played in the tournament due to a calf injury. Lula quipped that Neymar was “the first player called to the World Cup who works remotely.” Ancelotti had earlier consulted Lula about Neymar’s fitness before confirming his selection. Brazil’s next group game is against Scotland, while Haiti faces Morocco.

The match highlighted Brazil’s reliance on newer talents like Cunha, amid controversy over keeping the veteran Neymar in the squad despite his limited recent playtime.