Brazil suffered an injury setback during their 3-0 win over Haiti at the FIFA World Cup, with winger Raphinha forced off in the first half due to a muscle problem. Despite the concern, the team remains hopeful that the Barcelona star will recover in time to feature later in the tournament.
Raphinha suffers a thigh injury against Haiti
Raphinha was substituted after experiencing discomfort in the back of his right thigh during Brazil’s Group C clash. Medical examinations later confirmed a muscle injury, prompting immediate treatment from the national team's medical staff.
"He's a little downcast; we hope it's nothing too serious, that it's the least worst-case scenario, because he's a very important player, and we rely on him a lot," Paqueta told reporters.
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While Brazil have not disclosed an exact recovery timeline, early assessments have given the squad reason for optimism. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed that Raphinha will remain with the team as he begins rehabilitation.
"The player will follow an intensive treatment protocol, monitored by the Brazilian national team's medical staff, with the aim of facilitating his recovery and return to action as soon as possible." He added.
PROBLEMAS MUSCULARES DE RAPHINHA NA TEMPORADA:
— Venê Casagrande (@venecasagrande) June 21, 2026
Setembro de 2025: lesão na coxa. Ficou fora 58 dias e perdeu 13 jogos no Barcelona
Janeiro de 2026: pancada na coxa deixou Raphinha fora por sete dias e perdeu um jogo no Barcelona.
Fevereiro de 2026: lesão na coxa deixou o… pic.twitter.com/7p5FEAoMmu
The injury adds to a frustrating run for the 29-year-old, who has struggled with hamstring issues over the past year. Reports suggest this is his fourth muscle-related setback in the last 12 months.
Brazil confident winger can return
Despite the setback, Brazil are not considering replacing Raphinha in the squad. Team officials believe there is a realistic chance that he could return if the Selecao progress to the knockout stages.
Midfielder Lucas Paqueta highlighted Raphinha’s importance to the squad and expressed confidence that the winger would work hard to return as soon as possible. His absence, however, could force coach Carlo Ancelotti to make changes for Brazil’s final group-stage match against Scotland.
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Brazil’s victory over Haiti put them in a strong position in Group C. The five-time world champions are level on points with Morocco and remain well placed to reach the next round.
For now, Brazil’s focus will be on securing qualification while closely monitoring Raphinha’s recovery. Losing one of their key attacking players would be a major blow, but the latest updates have provided hope that his World Cup campaign may not be over.
