While Brazil National Football team is already lacking Neymar Jr in the lineup following injury, they have now lost yet another star player. Barcelona winger Raphinha was substituted due to injury during Brazil's 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C match against Haiti at Lincoln Financial Field, delivering a worrying blow to Carlo Ancelotti’s side despite their commanding performance.
The 29-year-old, who started on the right flank, left the pitch in the first half after appearing to suffer a hamstring issue. He hobbled off slowly as young forward Rayan entered the game for his senior international debut. Brazil responded strongly to their opening draw against Morocco, leading 3-0 at halftime thanks to a Matheus Cunha brace, which he recorded in 23' and 36th minutes, and a stoppage-time goal from Vinícius Júnior.
Raphinha forced off injured mid-game as Brazil dominates Haiti in World Cup clash
The Selecao dominated possession and chances, with Vinicius particularly influential. Raphinha had been managing minor fitness concerns, including blisters noted in training, but started the match. The severity of his injury remains unclear, though it adds to Brazil’s attacking worries as they aim to top the group and advance deep into the tournament.
Neymar continues to recover from his own calf issue. Brazil will now assess Raphinha’s condition ahead of their remaining group fixtures as they seek to build momentum in the competition. While the rest of the players are taking care of the game, Ancelotti would still need Raphinha and Neymar back to make the team stronger.
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