Raphinha Cleared to Return for Brazil's World Cup Clash Against Norway

Posted : 05 July 2026

Brazil have received a major boost ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Norway after winger Raphinha was declared fit to return from injury.

The Barcelona star suffered a hamstring injury during Brazil's group-stage victory over Haiti, raising fears that his tournament could be over. Given his recent history of similar injuries, many expected him to miss the remainder of the World Cup.

However, Raphinha has made a quicker-than-expected recovery after completing an intensive rehabilitation programme. He returned to full team training earlier this week and has now been cleared to feature against Norway.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that the 29-year-old will be included in the matchday squad, although he is unlikely to start the match.

Ancelotti explained that Raphinha has recovered well but is not yet at full fitness. He added that the winger is capable of contributing valuable minutes and remains one of Brazil's most important attacking players. The Italian coach also praised the speed and quality of the player's rehabilitation.

The news is a welcome boost for Brazil as they prepare for a difficult knockout clash. Raphinha has been one of the team's key creative players in recent seasons, and his return provides Ancelotti with another attacking option as Brazil pursue a sixth FIFA World Cup title.

Barcelona will also be monitoring the situation closely. The Spanish club has been managing Raphinha's recurring hamstring problems after he suffered similar injuries several times during the 2025-26 season.

The latest setback came just two weeks ago against Haiti, meaning there remains concern that a premature return could increase the risk of another recurrence. Any fresh injury could rule the Brazilian out of Barcelona's entire pre-season schedule and potentially delay his availability for the start of the 2026-27 campaign.

Reports suggest Barcelona are maintaining close communication with the Brazilian Football Confederation as they monitor Raphinha's workload during the remainder of the tournament. The Catalan club hopes to avoid any long-term complications that could affect one of their most influential players ahead of the new season.

Brazil face Norway in one of the standout Round of 16 fixtures, with a place in the World Cup quarterfinals at stake. Raphinha's availability gives Ancelotti an additional attacking weapon, even if his minutes are expected to be carefully managed.

Raphinha Cleared to Return for Brazil's World Cup Clash Against Norway

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