Paqueta Suffers Hamstring Tear as Brazil Prepare for Norway Last-16 Clash

Lucas Paqueta is set to miss the remainder of the World Cup with a hamstring injury, forcing Carlo Ancelotti to reshuffle his Brazil midfield.

Brazil’s 2-1 victory over Japan has come at a severe cost. Midfielder Lucas Paqueta is almost certainly ruled out for the remainder of the World Cup after sustaining a hamstring injury that forced him off at half-time.

Tests confirmed a minimum three-week layoff for the Flamengo playmaker. While Paqueta will remain with the squad in North America, head coach Carlo Ancelotti faces a significant tactical setback. 

The 28-year-old has been a permanent fixture in the Seleção engine room, forming a robust partnership alongside Casemiro. Ancelotti reportedly retains a slim hope that Paqueta could make the bench if Brazil reaches the final on July 19.

The injury list does not end there. Winger Raphinha remains sidelined with a knock picked up against Haiti and will not return until the quarter-finals at the earliest.

There is, however, some relief for the five-time champions. Casemiro has been cleared to play in the round-of-16 tie against Norway on July 6, having shaken off a minor problem from the Japan fixture. Yet, the veteran midfielder must navigate the match carefully; another booking would trigger a suspension for the subsequent round.

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