Brazil dropped its first high-profile friendly before the 2026 World Cup, losing 2-1 against France and offering coach Carlo Ancelotti another look at his squad before he makes the final roster call.
The match, played in the United States, ended in a tight one-goal defeat but raised questions about the availability of one of Brazil's star forwards, less than three months from the start of the tournament.
FC Barcelona and Brazil winger Raphinha started the game in Boston but did not return for the second half, leaving the match early.
That development prompted immediate concern among fans and analysts, especially given his importance to both his club and country as the season enters its home stretch and with the World Cup right around the corner.
After the game, Ancelotti confirmed that Raphinha's substitution was indeed injury-related.
"I think Raphinha played very well," Ancelotti said. "He had some muscle discomfort at the end of the first half, and we had to substitute him, but he had many opportunities and very good movement off the ball.
The Barcelona winger had been active in the opening half, creating chances and making runs before being replaced at the break. Ancelotti also praised Vinicius Jr. while addressing Raphinha's contributions.
"Vini always tries," Ancelotti said. "He always makes the difference. A striker cannot always score, but the work done by both of them was good."
Ancelotti didn't provide any particular details about the injury. Raphinha, however, already missed two months at the start of the season with a hamstring issue before suffering another setback in February.
Raphinha’s availability for Brazil’s next friendly against Croatia is now uncertain, adding another layer of concern ahead of the World Cup and Ancelotti's final squad assessment.
Brazil’s coach is set to announce his final roster on May 18, with the nation starting their World Cup campaign on June 13 against Morocco.
