Why is Lucas Paqueta not in squad for Brazil vs Norway FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash?

Lucas Paqueta started all four games for Carlo Ancelotti’s side in the FIFA World Cup.

Brazil are all set to face Norway in the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The game is expected to be a thrilling contest, with multiple top stars of the football world competing for a spot in the next round of the summer competition.

The Selecao’s top scorer in the ongoing edition, Vinicius Junior, will be keen on scoring a few more goals, while Matheus Cunha is also not very far from becoming the new leader in the exclusive list.

While the whole team has been functioning well as a unit, Lucas Paquetá was substituted at halftime during the Seleção’s last knockout game against Japan. Since that substitution, the concerns around his fitness have increased.

However, as soon as Brazil’s lineup for the clash against Norway was announced, fans started wondering why Lucas Paquetá was on the bench despite starting all the games for the five-time champions before.

Also Read: Brazil vs Norway Kick-off time in India, USA, UK, Australia & more for FIFA World Cup 2026

Why is Lucas Paqueta not in the squad for Brazil vs. Norway FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash?

Lucas Paqueta will miss Brazil’s crucial round of 16 clash against Norway in the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to a medical setback. The former West Ham United midfielder reportedly suffered a grade-two hamstring injury during the Selecao’s 2-1 victory over Japan in the round of 32.

Paqueta has been a crucial figure in Carlo Ancelotti’s lineup, and his absence has been a crucial blow for the five-time champions. The 27-year-old has played 236 minutes for the Brazilian side across four games, helping the side with creativity while also providing tactical depth.

While Paqueta helped the team maintain the framework under a high workload, he also provided one assist. Nevertheless, in the tough time, Gabriel Martinelli, who scored the Selecao’s winning goal in the added time against Japan, is set to take Lucas Paqueta’s place.

Martinelli could prove an ideal tactical option to replace the 27-year-old, as he offers versatility and can play on both wings and in the middle. His addition will also add more width to the line-up.

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