Brazil loses Raphinha to injury, Neymar nearing return

Brazil's World Cup campaign faces an immediate tactical hurdle with the loss of Raphinha, who sustained a thigh injury during Saturday's Group C match. The Barcelona winger was forced off before halftime in Brazil's 3-0 victory over Haiti.

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We are all sad, especially Rafa, because of this little setback due to this injury, but he can count on the support of all of us. We are all by his side.

Midfielder Lucas Paqueta acknowledged the blow, stating that Raphinha's absence will be keenly felt. "We are all sad, especially Rafa, because of this little setback due to this injury, but he can count on the support of all of us," Paqueta said. "He is a dedicated player and I am sure he will do everything possible and impossible to return as soon as possible."

Paqueta stressed Raphinha's importance to the national team, noting his "incredible seasons" and consistent improvement. "When any player as important as that is absent, you have to reorganize quickly," he added. Brazil currently holds four points from two matches and needs only a draw against Scotland to advance to the knockout stage.

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He is a dedicated player and I am sure he will do everything possible and impossible to return as soon as possible. But in terms of how important he is, I don't think I need to say anything else.

In a boost for the Seleção, experienced forward Neymar is nearing a return from his own injury, which has kept him out of the tournament. He is expected to feature against Scotland, marking his first appearance for Brazil since October 2023.

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He has had some incredible seasons and is getting better for the national team, so I think when any player as important as that is absent, you have to reorganize quickly.