Matheus Cunha redefines Brazil’s attack with ‘nine-and-a-half’ role at Copa América

Matheus Cunha is rewriting Brazil’s attacking playbook at Copa América 2024. The 25-year-old’s fluid role as a ‘nine-and-a-half’ has given the Seleção something they’ve rarely had: a centre-forward who drops deep, links midfield, and still scores.

What is Cunha doing differently?

Cunha isn’t a classic Brazilian number nine like Ronaldo, Adriano or Romário. Instead, he drifts between the lines, dragging defenders out of position and freeing up Vinícius Jr and Rayan. His movement creates chaos-if defenders follow, space opens behind them; if they don’t, he receives the ball between the lines with time to pick a pass or shoot.

So far, Cunha has three goals in the tournament. But his real impact isn’t just in the net. He presses high, harries midfielders, and even drops into a deeper role to shield the backline. It’s a balance Brazil haven’t struck before in a pure striker.

Why it matters for Matheus Cunha

The shift in perception is stark. Back home, fans who once demanded a traditional poacher now see Cunha as the solution. His comfort in the role-defensive work included-has turned him into the team’s tactical Swiss Army knife. And crucially, opponents are still figuring out how to stop him.

Cunha’s rise comes as Brazil search for identity beyond their golden past. His ability to adapt while retaining a lethal edge makes him more than a stopgap. He’s a prototype-a striker who can orchestrate as much as finish.

How rivals are reacting

Teams now know Cunha’s habits. They’ve seen him drop deep, seen him link play, seen him pop up in half-spaces. Yet his intelligence keeps him one step ahead. A defender closing down early? He slips a through-ball. A midfielder stepping up? He slips past into space.

That adaptability is rare. Most forwards excel in one dimension; Cunha thrives in two. And as Brazil march deeper into the tournament, that versatility could decide their fate.

What comes next?

Cunha’s form has turned him into a must-watch player. If Brazil reach the knockout rounds, his role will only grow. Opponents will gameplan harder against him-but his creativity and killer instinct suggest he’ll keep finding ways to hurt them.

Back home, the chatter is growing louder. Could this be the start of a new era for Brazil’s attack? If Cunha keeps this up, the answer might already be yes.