Brazil will face Norway in the Round of 16 of the World Cup on Sunday evening (21:00 UTC), as Carlo Ancelotti's side look to overcome Erling Haaland and company to move one step closer to adding another star to their shirt.
The South American giants need to inject some flair into their World Cup campaign. A nation synonymous with Joga Bonito, Brazil have looked solid rather than spectacular and may need Raphinha back in the squad after missing half of the group stage and the Japan fixture in the previous round.
Is Raphinha expected to play for Brazil tonight?
Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Raphinha has returned to training and is recovering well from his latest muscular injury setback, raising the possibility that he could feature for Brazil in their Round of 16 clash.
While his return has boosted optimism across Brazil, the Barcelona winger is unlikely to start after only a few days back in training. Given his history of muscular injuries over the past 12 months, the Seleção will be cautious not to risk another setback that could rule him out for the remainder of the tournament.
Brazil depth in the wing department
Brazil's strength in depth on the wings means Carlo Ancelotti is under no pressure to rush Raphinha back from injury. Vinícius Júnior remains the undisputed starter on the left, while Gabriel Martinelli and Luiz Henrique provide pace, creativity and a goal threat across the front line.
Rayan and Neymar add further versatility, with both capable of operating on either flank to give Brazil valuable tactical flexibility. Bournemouth winger Luiz Henrique has deputised well for the Barcelona star, delivering a solid performance across his two-and-a-half appearances. His relentless pressing and aerial presence have offered Brazil a different dimension in attack.
Even if Raphinha is unavailable or only fit enough for a substitute appearance, the Seleção possess more than enough quality out wide to trouble any defence, allowing Ancelotti to carefully manage the Barcelona winger's fitness for the latter stages of the tournament.
Left wing | Right wing |
|---|---|
Vinicius Junior | Raphinha |
Gabriel Martinelli | Rayan |
Neymar | Luiz Henrique |
Team news for game against Norway
Both Casemiro and Lucas Paquetá were forced off with injuries in the last match. While the former Manchester United midfielder is expected to recover in time to partner Bruno Guimarães, there are doubts over Paquetá's availability. If he misses out, Danilo Santos could be preferred to Ederson in midfield.
The defence appears settled, although there have been calls for Gabriel Martinelli to start on the right ahead of Rayan. Matheus Cunha is expected to retain his place as Brazil's central striker.
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