Brazil have suffered a major blow at the 2026 World Cup, with Lucas Paqueta now in serious danger of missing the remainder of their campaign following confirmation of an injury sustained in the victory over Japan. The Flamengo midfielder, who has been one of Carlo Ancelotti’s key players throughout the tournament, now faces a race against time to return to action for the Selecao.

Hamstring setback for the Flamengo talisman

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) delivered the news that fans feared most on Wednesday, revealing that Paqueta had picked up a significant muscle injury during the 2-1 win over Japan. The 28-year-old had to be substituted at half-time in Houston, and subsequent scans have revealed a worrying outlook for his short-term playing future in North America.

In a formal statement, the CBF announced: "Paqueta underwent an imaging test which confirmed a muscle injury at the back of his left thigh. The player will follow an intensive treatment plan, supervised by the national team’s medical staff, with the objective of recovering and returning to play as soon as possible."

Extended recovery period expected

Although the CBF has not given an official recovery timeline, a report from ESPN indicates that the injury is a grade two hamstring strain. This type of injury typically requires at least three weeks of recovery, which would likely rule out the former West Ham United star for the rest of the tournament—unless Brazil reach the final and he manages an extraordinarily quick comeback.

Despite the setback, Paqueta has maintained a positive outlook and expressed his determination to recover. "Faith... I've been through this before," he shared on his Instagram Story as he began rehabilitation. Paqueta has started every match for Brazil so far, cementing his place as one of Ancelotti’s most trusted midfield generals.

More injury concerns for Ancelotti

Paqueta’s absence compounds Brazil’s injury worries as they prepare for the knockout rounds. The midfielder joins Raphinha on the injury list, with the Barcelona winger sidelined due to his own hamstring issue picked up during the group stage. Bournemouth’s young talent Rayan has been stepping in for Raphinha in recent matches, as the Selecao continue to shuffle their lineup.

There is a slight boost for the squad, as Raphinha, aged 29, returned to light training on grass this week, participating in individual drills. However, Paqueta’s absence in midfield presents a different tactical challenge for the coaching team as they prepare for a Round of 16 clash against Norway in New Jersey.

Norway clash to test Brazil’s depth

Sunday’s encounter with Norway will test Brazil’s squad depth like never before in this tournament, as they will have to cope without one of their most creative and industrious midfielders. Ancelotti will have to identify a suitable replacement who can replicate Paqueta’s energy and vision in midfield while maintaining balance in attack. The pressure is on Brazil to continue living up to their billing as tournament favourites despite the mounting injury list.

The medical staff will continue to keep a close watch on both Paqueta and Raphinha, with the primary focus on preventing any aggravation of their respective injuries. For the moment, Brazil must move forward without their influential playmaker, relying on the depth and resilience of the squad to keep their World Cup ambitions alive.