Why is Raphinha not playing in Brazil’s World Cup game vs Scotland?
Brazil have all but qualified for the round of 32, but they could be missing one key player for the remainder of the tournament.
Brazil are all but guaranteed a place in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup ahead of their final group game against Scotland, although they have been dealt a major blow by an injury to Raphinha, who will not feature in Wednesday’s clash in Miami.
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Will Raphinha play again in the 2026 World Cup?
There is even some suggestion the Barcelona winger may not play for his country again in the tournament after being forced off with another hamstring injury, the same issue he suffered twice last season. The setback came toward the end of the first half of Friday’s 3-0 victory over Haiti.
Raphinha, however, will not be going anywhere just yet. He confirmed in an Instagram post: “I want to be alongside my teammates, fight for our goals, and continue giving my all to honor this jersey and bring joy to Brazilian fans. I remain strong.”
According to the Brazilian Football Confederation, the 29-year-old will undergo intensive treatment with national team doctors in the hope he could still play a part if Brazil go deep in the tournament.
Brazil’s qualification picture
Although not yet confirmed, Brazil’s current total of four points will almost certainly see them reach the knockout stage. However, that would likely be as a third-placed team, which would leave them facing a group winner, potentially Germany, Mexico or France, in the round of 32.
A draw against Scotland will guarantee a top-two finish, while a win could see them win the group. That scenario could depend on how heavily Morocco defeat Haiti, which is expected.
Winning Group C would see Brazil face the runner-up in Group F, which will be one of the Netherlands, Japan or Sweden.
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