Brazil's Raphinha fitness in doubt for World Cup last-32 match against Japan

Brazilian winger Raphinha suffered a hamstring injury on 19 June during the group‑stage match against Haiti, causing him to miss the 3‑0 win over Scotland. The injury has kept him out of training and his availability for the knockout round match against Japan on Monday, 26 June, at NRG Stadium in Houston remains uncertain.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti is expected to maintain the same lineup that secured Brazil’s Group C victory, with players such as Lucas Paquetá, Matheus Cunha, Vinícius Júnior, Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães likely to start. The decision on Raphinha will be made shortly before kickoff, as Brazil prepares to face Japan in the World Cup 2026 round of 16.