Lucas Paquetá will not play for Brazil in today’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Norway.
The Brazilian midfielder has been ruled out after suffering a hamstring injury during Brazil’s Round of 32 victory over Japan. Paquetá was substituted at halftime in that match, and head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that he is unavailable for the knockout clash.
Why Is Lucas Paquetá Not Playing?
Paquetá picked up a hamstring injury during Brazil’s win over Japan, preventing him from featuring against Norway. The injury comes at a difficult time for Brazil as the Seleção look to secure a place in the quarterfinals.
His absence means Brazil will need to rely on other midfield options as they prepare for one of their toughest matches of the tournament.
How Long Will Lucas Paquetá Be Out?
While Brazil have not provided a definitive timetable for Paquetá’s return, early reports suggest the midfielder could miss the remainder of the 2026 FIFA World Cup unless Brazil advance deep into the tournament.
The team’s medical staff will continue to monitor his recovery over the coming days.
Brazil Receive Positive News Elsewhere
Although Paquetá is unavailable, Brazil have received a boost with Raphinha returning to the squad after recovering from injury. However, he is expected to begin the match on the bench rather than in the starting lineup.
Brazil will be hoping their squad depth is enough to overcome Norway and continue their pursuit of a record-extending sixth FIFA World Cup title.
Brazil vs Norway Match Details
- Match: Brazil vs Norway
- Tournament: 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16
- Date: Sunday, July 5, 2026
- Kickoff: 4:00 p.m. ET
- Venue: New York New Jersey Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
With Lucas Paquetá sidelined, Brazil will look to their remaining stars to guide them into the quarterfinals against a Norway side aiming to pull off one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.