Matheus Cunha and Tyler Fletcher were on opposing sides for Brazil’s World Cup meeting with Scotland on Wednesday night, and the two Manchester United players had contrasting evenings
Matheus Cunha was reunited with Manchester United youngster Tyler Fletcher in a wholesome moment during Brazil’s World Cup clash with Scotland in Miami. Cunha’s side came out on top, with Brazil winning 3-0 to secure top spot in Group C.
For Scotland, it was a damaging night, leaving them dependent on results elsewhere to squeeze into the round of 32 after finishing third in their group. Steve Clarke’s side won’t know their fate until around Sunday, with teams in other groups still having one match left to play.
The expanded 48‑team format means only the top eight third‑placed sides progress and the Tartan Army have only themselves to blame after costly defensive errors. Scott McKenna’s early mistake gifted Brazil a seventh‑minute opener, finished by Vinicius Junior, and set the tone for a punishing evening.
Get MEN Premium now for just £1 HERE – or get involved in our United WhatsApp group by clicking HERE. You can also join our United Facebook page by clicking HERE and don’t miss out on our brilliant selection of newsletters HERE.
The Real Madrid star then struck again on the brink of half‑time, and Cunha added another to seal the win. It was the United attacker’s third goal in as many games.
Prior to the match, the players exchanged the usual handshakes but Cunha made a point of giving Fletcher a special greeting, offering a warm hug.
The heartwarming moment sparked plenty of reaction from fans on X.
One United supporter wrote: “United brotherhood,” while another added: “Lovely indeed. Teammates now facing each other in a fierce battle.”
A third simply commented: “Lovely moment that.”
However, Fletcher didn’t feature after being called-up to replace Napoli star Billy Gilmour who was ruled out of the World Cup with a knee injury suffered in Scotland’s final home friendly before the tournament.
As Scotland’s campaign edges towards an early finish, Fletcher, who only made his debut in a friendly against Curacao in May, may not get the chance to appear on the biggest stage.
The 19‑year‑old has been named on the bench for the Tartan Army’s last three matches against Haiti, Morocco and Brazil.
Get the latest World Cup news straight to your inbox by signing up to our Make Football Great Again newsletter now!
Cunha, meanwhile, made way for Neymar in the 76th minute after earning a second consecutive start under Carlo Ancelotti. Neymar made his first appearance of the tournament, having recently recovered from a calf injury.
Brazil have qualified for the knockouts and, as it stands, will face Japan in the round of 32.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login