PHILADELPHIA: Brazil were dealt an injury concern during their FIFA World Cup 2026 encounter against Haiti after winger Raphinha was forced off in the first half at Lincoln Financial Field on Friday.
The Barcelona star went down in the 39th minute and immediately received treatment from the medical staff, with teammates gathering around him as concerns grew over his condition.
After a brief stoppage, the 29-year-old managed to get back to his feet and made his way off the pitch under his own power.
Catch all FIFA World Cup 2026 live updates here!
Before leaving, he exchanged handshakes with goalkeeper Alisson and forward Vinicius Junior, who appeared to indicate that the problem was related to Raphinha’s hamstring.
Teenage winger Rayan, 19, was introduced as his replacement, while Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti and members of the bench offered words of encouragement as the Barcelona forward headed to the dugout with his head down.
Brazil were leading 2-0 at the time, thanks to a first-half brace from Matheus Cunha. Vinicius Junior later added a third goal to put the five-time world champions firmly in control.
Raphinha had earlier come close to opening his account at the tournament, but his effort drifted wide and was subsequently ruled out for offside.
Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel
The injury scare comes after the winger experienced fitness issues earlier in the season.
He missed several friendly matches in the latter part of the year and was also absent for Brazil’s March fixture against Croatia after picking up an injury in a defeat to France.
The ongoing tournament marks Raphinha’s second World Cup appearance. Despite establishing himself as one of Brazil’s key attacking players, he is still searching for his first World Cup goal.
READ: Canada star Ismael Kone to miss rest of World Cup 2026: team
