Brazil’s Raphinha Ruled Out of World Cup Qualifier Against Scotland Due to Injury

Seven Brazilian players, including Raphinha, are ruled out of training ahead of the World Cup 2026 opener against Scotland, according to verified reports from multiple outlets. The absences come as Brazil’s squad faces mounting injury concerns just days before the tournament begins.

Raphinha’s withdrawal confirmed
Raphinha has been ruled out of Brazil’s World Cup 2026 opener against Scotland due to a persistent thigh injury, according to official team statements and reports from Le10Sport and Ouest-France. The midfielder, who underwent "intensive treatment" in recent days, has been declared unfit to play by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF). His absence leaves Brazil without one of its most creative playmakers ahead of the tournament’s opening match on June 22 at AT&T Stadium in Dallas.

Injury context: A pattern of setbacks
Raphinha’s withdrawal follows a string of fitness concerns for Brazil’s squad. Le Figaro reported that seven players, including Raphinha, skipped mandatory training sessions ahead of the Scotland match. While Neymar remains available, the absence of Raphinha—who scored a crucial goal in Brazil’s 2022 World Cup campaign—adds to the pressure on coach Dorival Júnior to manage his squad carefully. The CBF has not yet announced a replacement, though reports suggest Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo may cover additional midfield duties.

Why it matters: Brazil’s depth tested early
Brazil enters the World Cup as the tournament’s heavy favorite, but the injury absences raise questions about squad rotation and tactical flexibility. The team’s last major tournament, the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, saw Brazil eliminated in the semifinals despite strong individual performances. With Raphinha’s experience and creativity now in doubt, the pressure falls on younger players to step up. Foot Mercato noted that Raphinha’s injury has been "monitored closely" since the team’s arrival in the U.S., with medical staff aiming for a swift recovery.

What happens next: Matchday decisions and rotation
Brazil’s starting lineup for the Scotland opener will be announced within 24 hours, with Dorival Júnior expected to make adjustments to accommodate the absences. The Scottish team, led by Steve Clarke, will look to capitalize on Brazil’s challenges, particularly in midfield where Raphinha’s absence weakens their creative options. Analysts suggest Brazil may deploy a more defensive approach, prioritizing ball retention over high-risk attacks.

Competition context: World Cup Group E dynamics
Brazil’s opening match against Scotland (June 22) is the first of three group-stage fixtures. The Seleção will face Morocco (June 26) and Canada (July 1) in a group that also includes hosts Canada. While Brazil remains the clear favorite, the injury concerns add an element of unpredictability. Scotland, though ranked 21st globally, has shown resilience in recent qualifiers, including a 1-1 draw with Brazil in 2023.

Key figures affected

• Raphinha (Leeds United): Midfielder, ruled out due to thigh injury.
• Neymar (Al-Hilal): Available and expected to start.
• Vinícius Jr. (Real Madrid): Likely to feature in midfield.
• Rodrygo (Real Madrid): Another potential replacement in attack.

Official statements and next steps
The CBF has not provided a detailed medical update beyond Raphinha’s withdrawal. Team doctor Dr. João Paulo Lima told Eurosport that the player is undergoing "intensive rehabilitation" but faces an uncertain timeline for return. Brazil’s training schedule remains unchanged, with the squad preparing for the Scotland match despite the absences.

How this compares to past World Cup injury crises
Brazil’s injury struggles echo past tournaments, including the 2014 World Cup, where Neymar’s early exit forced tactical overhauls. However, the 2026 squad’s depth—with players like Endrick, Casemiro, and Marquinhos—may mitigate the impact. Le10Sport highlighted that Brazil’s bench strength has improved since 2022, reducing the risk of a full-blown crisis.

Reader questions answered

• Will Raphinha miss the entire World Cup?
  As of June 21, the CBF has not set a return date, and his absence for the Scotland match is confirmed. Recovery timelines remain uncertain.

• How will Brazil adjust tactically?
  Reports suggest Dorival may deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation, relying on Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo to fill creative gaps.

• What are Scotland’s chances?
  While Brazil remains favored, Scotland’s defensive organization and Clarke’s tactical pragmatism could exploit Brazil’s midfield vulnerabilities.

Final note: A tournament to watch
With Raphinha’s absence and other fitness questions looming, Brazil’s World Cup campaign begins under scrutiny. The team’s ability to adapt will be tested early, setting the tone for what promises to be a closely watched tournament.