Raphinha's World Cup hopes dashed by latest injury layoff

Brazilian winger Raphinha's injury during the World Cup match against Haiti has cast a shadow over Brazil's victory, marking another painful chapter in his season of physical ailments. The Barcelona player, a key part of the Seleção's attack, was forced off the field just before halftime after falling to the ground in visible distress.

Medical tests confirmed a muscle injury in the posterior region of his right thigh. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced he would begin intensive treatment. Sources close to the player indicate he might only be available again for a potential Round of 16 match, meaning he will miss the final group stage game against Scotland and any potential knockout matches in the round of 32.

This latest setback adds to a difficult season for Raphinha, who has already endured 112 days sidelined due to various injuries, missing 24 matches for both Barcelona and the national team. His season began with a mid-September injury to his right hamstring, followed by a left hamstring issue in January that caused him to miss the Spanish Super Cup final.

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a muscle injury in the posterior region of his right thigh

Further complications arose in February with a right adductor overload, leading to three missed club matches. In March, he suffered another blow while on international duty, returning to Barcelona with pain in his right posterior leg – the same area affected by his most recent injury. He only received medical clearance on May 2.

With La Liga largely decided in Barcelona's favor, Raphinha had focused on the World Cup, where he and Vinícius Júnior were expected to lead the five-time champions. The team's concentration began on May 27 in Rio de Janeiro, but this injury now jeopardizes his participation in what could be his final World Cup.

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intensive treatment