Brazilian attacker Matheus Cunha addressed his decision to mock Japan player Kento Shiogai using a gesture referencing Brazil’s five World Cup titles. The Selecao have historically secured the trophy in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2002, boasting a legacy featuring greats like Pele and Ronaldo Nazario.
Despite this record, Brazil has faced recent challenges, exiting in the quarter-finals during four of the last five tournaments. Before the recent Round of 32 clash, Shiogai, 21, questioned Brazil’s current standing in world football, claiming the nation was no longer the powerhouse it once was and suggesting only France and Argentina remained elite.
Following Brazil’s 2-1 win over Japan, where Cunha played 66 minutes, the forward was seen flashing five fingers at his opponent. Cunha later explained that while he respects Japan as a team, Shiogai’s disparaging comments regarding the Brazilian national jersey were unacceptable and required a response. Alongside teammates like Vinicius Jr and Marquinhos, Cunha remains focused on helping Brazil claim a sixth world title in 2026.
