Raphinha injury mystery deepens as Brazil remain silent after Australia win

Barcelona are waiting for an official update on Raphinha after the forward was substituted at half-time during Brazil’s 4-2 friendly victory over Australia on Tuesday.

Raphinha felt pain in his right thigh after scoring a penalty in the final minute of the first half. Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti decided not to risk him after the interval, leaving him in the dressing room and sending on Real Madrid forward Endrick.

The Brazil Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed the substitution to Mundo Deportivo but has not provided any further information about the nature or seriousness of the problem.

Uncertainty has continued in the hours since the match, with the time difference between Australia and Brazil making it unclear whether Raphinha would undergo tests there or return to Barcelona.

Barcelona have been told that the player is experiencing some discomfort, although the extent of the issue remains unknown. There has been no indication of whether he will be available for Brazil’s next match, against India on Saturday 3 October.

Ancelotti did not address Raphinha’s condition during his post-match news conference and did not say whether the problem would prevent the Barcelona captain from featuring in the upcoming fixture.

Images shared on social media showing Raphinha leaving the stadium did not suggest he was visibly concerned. When asked “How are you?” in the mixed zone after the match, he gave a brief response but smiled, which Mundo Deportivo interpreted as a sign of calm.

However, the Catalan newspaper urged caution while supporters wait for a formal medical statement. Raphinha’s importance to Ancelotti’s Brazil side has added to the concern surrounding his early withdrawal.

The 14-goal forward has already suffered two recent injuries while playing for Brazil. In March 2026, he was forced off during a friendly against France after experiencing pain in his right hamstring. Tests confirmed a muscle tear and he was subsequently ruled out of the squad.

Raphinha later sustained another injury during the World Cup in June, when he suffered a tear in his right hamstring during Brazil’s match against Haiti. He underwent intensive treatment before returning.

He has been one of Barcelona’s leading players this season, particularly since moving into a central striking role. Raphinha has scored 14 goals in the club’s eight matches so far.