FIFA World Cup 2026: Raphinha suffers right thigh muscle injury, CBF confirm

Brazil's promising World Cup campaign has been marred by an injury to key winger Raphinha. The player was forced off the field during Brazil's commanding 3-0 win against Haiti on Friday, clutching the back of his right thigh.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed the injury on Saturday after Raphinha underwent an imaging examination. The diagnosis revealed a muscle injury, adding to a string of recent fitness concerns for the forward. This is the fourth hamstring-related problem Raphinha has experienced in the last year, a period that saw him sidelined for 23 matches for his club, Barcelona.

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On Saturday, Raphinha underwent an imaging exam that confirmed a muscle injury in the back of his right thigh.

This latest setback occurred during a crucial moment in the match. Although Raphinha had an early goal disallowed for offside, his presence was felt before his premature exit. Brazil went on to secure a comfortable victory, with goals from Matheus Cunha and Vinicius Junior, to move to four points in their group stage. However, the team must now prepare for future matches without their dynamic winger.

The CBF has stated that Raphinha will commence an intensive rehabilitation program. The program will be closely monitored by the national team's medical staff, with the primary objective of facilitating his swift recovery and return to competitive play. The duration of his absence remains uncertain, but the recurring nature of his injuries raises concerns about his long-term fitness.

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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.