Raphinha hamstring injury confirmed, Brazil forward begins intensive treatment with World Cup hopes alive

Injury during Haiti win

Raphinha left the field late in the first half of Brazil's 3-0 win over Haiti on Friday night in Philadelphia. The 29-year-old Barcelona forward received medical attention on the pitch before being substituted. After the match, he waved to the crowd with a pained expression, Tagesspiel reported.

Raphinha suffered a muscle injury in the back of his right thigh.

Treatment plan

Tests confirmed the hamstring injury but the Brazilian confederation has stressed that Raphinha has not been ruled out of the tournament, unlike defender Wesley before the opener against Morocco. The forward will now undergo an intensive treatment program, with the goal of resuming normal activities quickly, according to an AP report.

Group stage outlook

Brazil has won both of its group matches and will face Scotland on Wednesday in Miami Gardens. Coach Carlo Ancelotti has indicated that Neymar, who had been dealing with an injury, is likely to be available for that fixture, Tagesspiegel reported. That could mitigate the absence of Raphinha if he is not fit.

Wider implications

If Raphinha's injury proves longer than hoped, it would be a heavy blow for Brazil's World Cup campaign, as noted by German outlet Tagesspiegel. However, with Neymar's return, Brazil's attack retains a potent option for the final group game.