After a long wait, Matheus Cunha has finally earned a recall to the Brazil national team. The in-form forward is thrilled to be back and is determined to give his all. According to him, there’s no room for anything less than 100% when playing for Brazil.
Cunha has played 11 matches for Brazil so far, with his last appearance coming in October 2023 during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. However, he is yet to score his first goal for the national team.
The Wolverhampton Wanderers striker has been in excellent form this season, scoring 15 goals and providing four assists in 29 appearances across all competitions. His impressive performances caught the attention of Brazil coach Dorival Júnior, who included him in the squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina.
Speaking to CBF TV, Cunha expressed his satisfaction at returning to the national team.
“Returning to the national team has always been a big goal, and I’m very happy to be back, especially at a time when I’m playing so well for my club.”
“Any opportunity to be in the Brazil squad is special. Once you’re here, there’s no way you can give anything less than 100%. In this team, you have to give more than that.”
Despite being Brazilian, Cunha has never played club football in his home country. His only chance to play on Brazilian soil comes when he represents the national team. So far, the 25-year-old has played five matches in Brazil.
Brazil will host Colombia on Friday before traveling to Argentina five days later for their next World Cup qualifier.
“Playing at home is a unique feeling. I’ve never played club football in Brazil, so I’ve only represented the national team here. When I was in Curitiba, I wasn’t a professional yet… Brazilians are very passionate about the national team. Whether in good times or bad, they see themselves as part of this team. I hope we can perform so well on the pitch that it resonates beyond the field.”
Brazil hasn’t had the best start in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Out of 12 matches, they have won just five and drawn three. With 18 points, the five-time champions currently sit in fifth place in the standings.