Brazil got the win they needed against Japan. They did not get out unscathed.
Lucas Paquetá, one of the most influential midfielders in the Brazilian squad, was substituted at halftime during Brazil’s round-of-32 match against Japan after feeling discomfort in his left thigh. Brazil went on to win 2-1, but the real story emerged the following day when the Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed via scan results that Paquetá had sustained a muscle injury and would miss the upcoming round-of-16 fixture.
Brazil faces the winner of the Norway vs. Ivory Coast match on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Paquetá will not be on the pitch.
What Paquetá’s absence actually means for Brazil
The CBF confirmed the injury on June 30 and stated that Paquetá is undergoing intensive treatment. No recovery timeline has been provided, which leaves open the possibility he could return for a quarterfinal if Brazil advances.
