Brazil’s Lucas Paquetá Suffers Thigh Injury Ahead of FIFA World Cup Clash With Norway

Brazil midfielder Lucas Paquetá is dealing with a thigh injury ahead of his team’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Norway.

The 28-year-old was substituted at halftime during Brazil’s 2-1 victory over Japan after appearing to experience discomfort during the first half. The win secured Brazil’s place in the knockout stage, where they will face Norway on Sunday.

According to the Brazilian Football Confederation, medical examinations confirmed that Paquetá sustained a muscle injury to the back of his thigh.

The extent of the injury and his availability for the upcoming match have not yet been confirmed, with the team’s medical staff expected to continue monitoring his recovery in the coming days.

Paquetá has been an important member of Brazil’s midfield, contributing both creatively and defensively throughout his international career. Since making his senior debut, he has scored 13 goals in 67 appearances for the national team.

Brazil will be hoping the experienced midfielder can recover in time for the highly anticipated Round of 16 encounter against Norway as the five-time world champions continue their pursuit of another FIFA World Cup title.