2026 World Cup: Will Brazilian Lucas Paqueta miss the rest of the tournament?

The bad news continues to pile up for Brazil in this 2026 World Cup. Already deprived of several key players before the start of the competition, the Seleção must now deal with another major injury: that of Lucas Paqueta.

The Flamengo midfielder was injured during the match against Japan. Forced to leave the pitch before the end of the game, the former Olympique Lyonnais player appeared very emotional, leaving the field in tears. Medical examinations confirmed a muscle injury in the back of his left thigh.

This injury has already ruled Paqueta out of the round of 16 match against Norway. But his absence could last much longer.

According to information from the Brazilian press, his recovery period is estimated at at least two weeks, which seriously jeopardizes the rest of his tournament.

According to the Brazilian media outlet "Lance!", the player is not expected to resume ball training until between July 12 (quarter-finals) and July 15 (semi-finals) if Brazil qualifies, or even the final on July 19.

For coach Carlo Ancelotti, who was also without Raphinha for the last two matches, this news presents a real headache. After Rodrygo, Estêvão, and Éder Militão withdrew before the start of the World Cup, the loss of Lucas Paquetá further reduces the options for an already depleted squad.

The Seleção will now have to continue its journey without one of its most experienced midfielders, hoping to extend his adventure to allow him to make an improbable comeback.