Brazil have suffered a setback ahead of their much-anticipated friendly against India in Kolkata, with Barcelona forward Raphinha leaving the national team camp because of a thigh injury.
Raphinha was substituted at half-time during Brazil’s 4-2 victory over Australia in Brisbane on Tuesday. The winger underwent a scan after reporting discomfort, with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirming that he had suffered a “small muscle oedema” in his right thigh.
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The 29-year-old has subsequently left the Brazil squad as a precaution, making him unlikely to feature against India in Saturday’s friendly in Kolkata. His withdrawal will come as a disappointment to Indian football fans who were hoping to see one of Brazil’s leading attacking players in action.
Raphinha had started Brazil’s friendly against Australia and was involved during the opening 45 minutes before being replaced at the interval. Brazil eventually secured a 4-2 win, but concerns over the Barcelona forward’s condition emerged soon after the match.
According to Reuters, the CBF said the scan showed the muscle oedema in Raphinha’s right thigh. The federation opted to release him from international duty rather than risk aggravating the problem.
The decision also comes with Barcelona in mind, with the Spanish club entering an important part of the season. Raphinha has been a key player for the Catalan side and Brazil’s decision to take a cautious approach could help prevent a minor issue from developing into a longer-term injury.
For India, meanwhile, the development means the Blue Tigers could face Brazil without one of the most recognisable names in their squad. The Kolkata fixture is expected to attract significant attention, with Indian supporters looking forward to seeing the five-time world champions in action.
Brazil’s 4-2 victory over Australia was their latest preparation match before the India encounter. The team will now have to assess its attacking options after Raphinha’s departure from the camp.
Raphinha’s absence is particularly notable because of his profile at club and international level. The Barcelona forward has established himself as an important attacking option for Brazil, combining his pace, movement and ability to create chances from wide areas.
However, Brazil will still arrive in Kolkata with a squad packed with international experience and quality. For India, the match remains a major opportunity to test themselves against one of football’s most successful national teams.
While there has been no indication that Raphinha’s injury is serious, the decision to send him back to his club reflects the precautionary approach taken by Brazil’s medical team.
The India-Brazil friendly is scheduled for Saturday in Kolkata, and Raphinha’s withdrawal means Indian fans may have to wait for another occasion to watch the Barcelona star play on Indian soil.
