The Copa Quarterfinal clash between Brazil and Uruguay lived up to the expectations of football fans. The game, being highly physical and tense, proved to be a timeless clash between the two South American giants.
With only 15 minutes into the game, Araujo shouldered Real Madrid's Endrick when Brazil prepared to take their corner. Without wasting time, Raphinha came in the defence of his Brazilian teammate.
Araujo ruled out of Copa America
The aggressive winger pushed Araujo to the ground, however the match officials intervened soon to separate the two. On top of that, in the 30th minute, Araujo stretched his right leg while attempting to block Guilherme Arana's cross into the box. The Catalan defender suffered a muscle injury in his right leg and was forced to leave the pitch in tears. That is the eighth time Araujo faced a muscle injury since he joined FC Barcelona.
That marks the second blow for the Blaugrana, who yesterday saw Pedri limping on the pitch following a rough challenge by Toni Kroos. Though Araujo's injury diagnosis is yet to come, his Copa America 2024 has ended officially.
The game went to penalties, with Uruguay winning 4-2 to progress to the Semi-finals. Thus, the center-back won't play any part against Colombia in the Semis or even a potential Final.
Araujo's injury: Huge setback for FC Barcelona
With De Jong already missing the UEFA Euro 2024 due to injury and Gavi sidelined with his ligament tear in Nov 2023, injuries to Pedri and Araujo have forced the Barcelona board to look at potential reinforcements for these first-team starters.
With Hansi Flick starting his Barcelona preseason on 10 July, it looks highly likely that Ronald Araujo won't be a part of the team that heads to the United States to take on Manchester City, Real Madrid, and AC Milan. As for Barca, they can't afford more injuries to their first-team starters, as it will dampen their silverware aspirations after going trophyless last season.