Brazil have suffered a major setback in their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign after midfielder Lucas Paqueta sustained a hamstring injury that could rule him out for the remainder of the tournament.
The injury occurred during Brazil’s 2-1 win over Japan in the Round of 32. According to ESPN, medical tests have confirmed that Paqueta suffered a hamstring strain and is expected to be sidelined for around three weeks, putting his World Cup participation in serious doubt.
Paqueta unlikely to feature against Norway
The expected recovery period means the 28-year-old is set to miss Brazil’s Round of 16 clash against Norway. Even if Brazil progress to the later stages of the tournament, Paqueta faces a race against time to regain full fitness before the competition concludes.
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The midfielder has been a key figure for head coach Carlo Ancelotti, contributing with his creativity, work rate and ability to control the tempo in midfield.
“É uma lesão considerada grave. De grau 2, na parte posterior da coxa. É muito difícil que o Lucas Paquetá fique à disposição durante a Copa do Mundo.” –@venecasagrande #sbtsportsrio #sbt #futebol pic.twitter.com/SrAYRxaByL— SBT Rio (@sbtrio) July 1, 2026
His absence would leave a significant gap in Brazil’s lineup at a crucial stage of the tournament.
Ancelotti faces midfield reshuffle
Paqueta’s injury adds to Brazil’s growing fitness concerns as the knockout rounds begin. Carlo Ancelotti is now expected to make changes in midfield ahead of the meeting with Norway, with the coaching staff assessing replacement options.
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Brazil secured their place in the Round of 16 after overcoming Japan in a closely contested match. However, the focus has now shifted from the victory to the fitness of one of the team’s most influential players.
🚨🇧🇷 URGENTE! Lucas Paquetá está praticamente fora da Copa do Mundo.
Exames indicaram uma lesão de grau 2 na coxa esquerda, e a previsão é de 1 mês para retorno aos gramados.
O meia continuará com a Seleção Brasileira nos Estados Unidos para tentar encurtar este prazo, mas as… pic.twitter.com/tQMH3chGZA— Planeta do Futebol 🌎 (@futebol_info) June 30, 2026
While Brazil remain hopeful that Paqueta can recover quickly, the initial prognosis suggests he is unlikely to return unless the team reaches the final stages of the tournament.
The five-time world champions will now prepare for their knockout clash without one of their first-choice midfielders. As Brazil continue their quest for a sixth World Cup title, Ancelotti will be hoping his squad has enough depth to cope with the loss of Paqueta during the decisive phase of the competition.
