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Brazil coach Ancelotti eyes Martinelli as Paquetá replacement for Norway knockout
Brazil's midfielder Lucas Paquetá is sidelined with a left‑hamstring injury after the 2‑1 win over Japan. Ahead of the round‑of‑16 clash with Norway on Sunday 5 July at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, coach Carlo Ancelotti said the team needs a player who can defend the left side when out of possession. He highlighted Gabriel Martinelli and Danilo Santos as suitable options, noting, “[Precisamos] de um jogador que possa defender pelo lado esquerdo, como fez o Paquetá, quando a equipe não tem a bola. Isto podem fazer Martinelli e [o volante] Danilo Santos.” Other names mentioned included Vinícius Júnior, Douglas Santos, Matheus Cunha and Ederson, depending on the tactical balance required.
Ancelotti also confirmed that winger Raphinha, who suffered a right‑hamstring injury in the group stage, has progressed well and will be available on the bench for a few minutes if needed. The match is seen as an opportunity for Brazil to break its historic inability to beat Norway and to end a decade‑long streak without a knockout‑stage victory over a European opponent.
The teams meet at 17:00 BRT (22:00 local time) in New Jersey, with Brazil aiming to advance to the quarter‑finals.