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Norway and Erling Haaland stand in Brazil’s path as the Selecao look to make a serious push for the World Cup title.
After topping their group, Carlo Ancelotti’s squad appears to be growing in confidence, with the likes of Vinicius Jr. and Matheus Cunha both finding clinical form. After sending Japan packing with a win in the Round of 32, they now face a tough challenge against Norway.
One of the key names on the team sheet throughout the tournament has been Lucas Paquetá, who started all four of Brazil’s previous matches before being substituted at halftime against Japan.
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Paquetá was subbed off during the Japan match after he suffered a injury to the back of his left thigh.
Regarding the injury, Brazil’s Football Confederation (CBF) said in a statement:
“Paquetá underwent an imaging exam that confirmed a muscle injury in the back of his left thigh,”
“The player will follow an intensive treatment protocol, under the supervision of the Brazilian national team’s medical staff, with the goal of recovering and returning to action as soon as possible.”
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Reports claim Paquetá has suffered a Grade II strain, an injury that is expected to sideline him for around three weeks.
The setback is another injury concern for Ancelotti, who has also been without Raphinha after the winger suffered a hamstring injury against Haiti during the group stage. However, Raphinha has returned to training earlier than expected, while Neymar has already recovered and made his return against Scotland.
Regarding Paquetá’s replacement, Ancelotti expressed confidence in Brazil’s depth and the options available to fill the role.
“We have players in our squad with the quality of Paqueta but each with different characteristics, like Danilo, who is different from Gabriel Martinelli, from Matheus Cunha, from Ederson.”
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This story was originally published July 5, 2026 at 12:45 PM.