Brazil can count on Raphinha in possible 2026 last 16; here's why

This Saturday (20), the CBF released new information about Raphinha‘s medical situation after he left the match against Haiti at the end of the first half with muscle pain.

In the statement, the federation confirmed a muscle injury in the back of his right thigh, but did not give a timetable for his return.

However, according to the outlet ge, the Brazil national team’s coaching staff is counting on Raphinha for a possible round of 16 match.

Also according to reporting by Bruno Cassucci and Cahê Mota, the imaging exam did not show “anything too serious,” but the national team’s medical department wants to monitor the injury’s progress over the next few days.

This caution is due to the fact that, since the injury is recent, edema and swelling could prevent a more accurate diagnosis.

Brazil will return to the field next Wednesday (24), when they face Scotland in Miami, United States, at 7 p.m. (Brasília time).

Depending on Brazil’s standing in Group C, the round of 32 would be played on June 29 or 30.

And the round of 16 would take place on July 4 or 5. 

In other words, Raphinha would have about two weeks to recover in order to take the field for Brazil in the round of 16. 

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.