Manchester United new boy Matheus Cunha grabbed an assist in Brazil’s 1-0 win over Paraguay in World Cup qualifying.
Cunha started in the number 10 position and set up Vinicius Junior to score the only goal of the game to give Brazil their first win in the Carlo Ancelotti era.
He cleverly won the ball back in the penalty area and raced to the byline. He pulled back an inch-perfect cross that Vinicius could not miss, on the stroke of half-time.
The former Wolverhampton Wanderers player played 79 minutes of the match and had 53 touches of the ball.
He only made 69% of his passes but was at his creative best, making three key passes in the match. He also created two big chances for his side.
United fans will look forward not only to Cunha’s creativity but also his combative nature on the pitch as he won five ground duels and four aerial battles in an all-round display.
Casemiro continued to impress under his old manager as he had 99 touches of the ball and completed 83% of his passes.
He showed off his passing range, connecting with five long ball attempts. He also won four aerial duels and two ground battles.
As you would expect, he was heavily involved in the defensive aspect of the game, making seven clearances, two blocks and two interceptions.
Finally, Manual Ugarte shone for Uruguay as they ran out 2-0 winners over Venezuela. He made 93% of his passes, completing five out of seven long ball attempts.
He played the entire 90 minutes and had 74 touches of the ball in an important win for his national side.
The Uruguayan was typically combative, winning an impressive eight ground duels and two aerial battles. He also helped his side keep a clean sheet by making seven successful tackles on the night.
Featured image Matt McNulty via Getty Images
Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social
Alex Browne
Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Proud owner of such niche shirts such as Kleberson, Eric Djemba-Djemba and Gary Neville. Grew up pretending to be Ruud van Nistelrooy and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the back garden, with little success.
