- Home >
- Soccer >
- FIFA World Cup >
- Will Brazil lose a starter for the rest of the World Cup? The latest from the Seleção|
Will Brazil lose a starter for the rest of the World Cup? The latest from the Seleção|
Brazil has been dealt a major injury blow as it prepares for the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Brazil has been dealt a major injury blow as it prepares for the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Lucas Paquetá is expected to miss the remainder of the tournament after suffering a muscle injury to the back of his left thigh during Brazil's Round of 32 victory over Japan.
Paquetá likely out for the rest of the tournament
A source within the Brazilian national team confirmed that the Flamengo midfielder has already begun intensive treatment in an effort to recover as quickly as possible.
However, he is expected to miss the Round of 16 against Norway and any potential quarterfinal against England or Mexico, making a return during this World Cup highly unlikely.
A major setback for Carlo Ancelotti
The 28-year-old had established himself as one of Carlo Ancelotti's key starters during the tournament.
Paquetá formed Brazil's midfield alongside Bruno Guimarães and Casemiro while serving as the creative link between midfield and the attacking trio.
His absence forces Ancelotti to rethink one of the most important areas of his lineup.
Brazil's replacement options
The Brazilian coach has several alternatives to fill the void left by Paquetá.
Danilo Santos offers versatility in midfield, Gabriel Martinelli could be deployed in a deeper role, while Endrick would require a more attacking setup featuring four forwards.
Brazil now turns its attention to Sunday's Round of 16 clash with Norway, where it will likely be without one of its most influential midfielders as it continues its pursuit of a sixth World Cup title.
