Huge Brazil injury boost! Raphinha returns to training ahead of World Cup last-16 clash with Norway

Brazil have received a timely injury boost ahead of their World Cup round-of-16 showdown with Norway after Raphinha returned to training.

The Barcelona winger completed his first on-field rehabilitation session in New Jersey on Tuesday as he continues his recovery from the thigh injury that has kept him out during the latter stages of the group phase.

Raphinha steps up recovery

Raphinha took another significant step towards full fitness by returning to the grass under the supervision of Brazil’s medical staff.

The 29-year-old has been recovering from a right thigh muscle injury suffered during Brazil’s group-stage victory over Haiti, and his latest session represents encouraging progress ahead of the knockout rounds.

While Carlo Ancelotti gave the remainder of the squad time to recover before Wednesday’s training session, Raphinha remained at the team’s base to continue his personalised rehabilitation programme.

His commitment to accelerating his recovery has given Brazil renewed optimism that one of their key attacking players could yet play a major role in the tournament.

Brazil unwilling to take unnecessary risks

Despite the positive developments, Brazil are expected to remain cautious with the winger’s recovery.

According to ESPN, Raphinha is still considered doubtful for the last-16 meeting with Norway, with Ancelotti and the medical staff unwilling to risk aggravating the injury.

The Selecao are also managing Lucas Paqueta’s thigh problem following the victory over Japan, making careful squad management a priority as the tournament enters its decisive phase.

A final decision on Raphinha’s availability is expected closer to kick-off, with the coaching staff monitoring his progress on a daily basis.

Familiar injury frustration

The latest setback has continued an unfortunate pattern for the Barcelona star.

The current problem is the fifth thigh-related injury Raphinha has suffered during the 2025-26 campaign, having already endured several muscle issues with both club and country throughout the season.

He was forced off during the first half of Brazil’s 3-0 win over Haiti, leaving the pitch visibly emotional amid fears his World Cup could be over.

Fortunately for Brazil, medical examinations confirmed a muscle strain rather than a serious tear, leaving the door open for a return later in the knockout stages if he responds positively to the increased training workload.

With a place in the quarter-finals at stake against Norway, Ancelotti now faces a difficult decision over whether to gamble on one of his most influential attacking players or allow him additional time to reach full fitness.