Why is Raphinha not in squad for Brazil vs Japan in FIFA World Cup 2026?
(Courtesy : Getty)
Raphinha was not named in the matchday squad for the Brazil vs Japan match tonight.
Brazil face Japan in a Round of 32 clash in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, on June 29. Despite the Selecao having a strong roster at their disposal for the upcoming fixture, a big name is missing from the matchday squad: Raphinha.
The Barcelona winger has not been named in the starting lineup or among the substitutes. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti started Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr on the left flank, joined by Bournemouth wunderkind Rayan on the right.
The wide attacking options on the bench include Neymar, Endrick, Gabriel Martinelli, and Luiz Henrique. Igor Thiago is an option through the middle and can replace the starting centre-forward, Matheus Cunha, later in the game.
Also Read: Why is Neymar benched for Brazil vs Japan in FIFA World Cup 2026?
Why is Raphinha not playing?
The reason the 29-year-old winger is not playing in the Brazil vs Japan match is that he is currently out with a hamstring injury, which he suffered in the first half during the match against Haiti.
The player was brought off in the 40th minute with a thigh issue. Further tests showed that it was a grade one tear in the right hamstring.
Despite the setback, the Brazilian number 11 has decided to remain with the national team and undergo rehabilitation with the goal of making a comeback during the later stages of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Although hamstring injuries typically take two to four weeks to heal, the player said that he “will do everything within my power to recover and return as soon as possible.”
The hamstring has been a big source of trouble for Raphinha throughout the season. He has missed 24 games for club and country due to four separate hamstring injuries over the past year.
Why is Raphinha not playing in Brazil vs Japan match?
He is missing due to a grade one hamstring tear suffered in the first half against Haiti.
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Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When he’s not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.