Brazil will face Norway in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and one of the biggest questions ahead of kickoff is whether star winger Raphinha will be available.
After missing Brazil’s previous match due to injury, fans have been eager to learn if the Barcelona attacker will return to Carlo Ancelotti’s lineup for the knockout-stage clash.
Is Raphinha playing today vs Norway?
Raphinha is not expected to start for Brazil against Norway in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
The Brazilian winger has recovered enough from a hamstring injury to be included in the matchday squad, but he is expected to begin the game on the bench rather than in the starting XI.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that Raphinha has made encouraging progress in his recovery, though he is not yet fully fit to play from the opening whistle.
Could Raphinha play against Norway?
Yes. While Raphinha is unlikely to start, he is available as a substitute and could feature later in the match if Brazil need additional attacking quality.
His pace, creativity and crossing ability could provide an important boost should Ancelotti decide to bring him on during the second half.
Brazil’s expected attack vs Norway
With Raphinha expected to begin on the bench, Brazil’s projected attacking lineup includes:
- Rayan
- Matheus Cunha
- Vinícius Júnior
Brazil will be hoping the trio can provide enough firepower as the five-time world champions look to secure a place in the quarterfinals.
Why did Raphinha miss Brazil’s previous match?
Raphinha had been sidelined with a hamstring injury that kept him out of Brazil’s Round of 32 victory over Japan.
The winger has since returned to training and has recovered sufficiently to be available for selection, although Brazil’s coaching staff are taking a cautious approach to avoid aggravating the injury during the knockout rounds.
Brazil looks to advance
Brazil enters the Round of 16 looking to continue its quest for a record-extending sixth FIFA World Cup title. Norway, led by Erling Haaland, presents a difficult challenge, making every squad decision significant.
Even if Raphinha does not start, his availability off the bench gives Brazil another dangerous attacking option as they attempt to book a place in the quarterfinals.