Brazil hopeful over Raphina's latest injury
Brazil's 3-0 victory over Haiti at he 2026 FIFA World Cup had a sting in the tail as Barcelona forward Raphinha limped off in the first half with another thigh injury, but the national team remains hopeful he can stay with the squad and return later in the tournament.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed that the winger had suffered a muscle injury, although it gave no timeline for his return.
A source close to the team said the outlook was optimistic.
"Raphinha underwent an imaging exam that confirmed a muscle injury in the back of his right thigh," a CBF statement read.
"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."
The injury is Raphinha's fourth hamstring problem in the past year. He sat out 23 matches at Barcelona last season with similar issues.
His previous setback came while playing for Brazil against France in a friendly during the March international window, sidelining him for more than a month.
Brazil's players have rallied around the 29-year-old, with midfielder Lucas Paqueta saying they were hoping for positive news.
"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 said.
Raphinha was replaced by winger Rayan against Haiti.
Brazil closes its Group C campaign against Scotland in Miami on Thursday (AEST). It leads the group with four points, ahead of Morocco on goal difference, with Scotland third on three and Haiti eliminated after two defeats.
