Raphinha Ruled Out of India vs Brazil Friendly With Thigh Injury

Raphinha ruled out of India vs Brazil clash with minor thigh injury

Brazil forward Raphinha will miss the October 3 India vs Brazil friendly in Kolkata after suffering a minor thigh injury. He has been released from the Brazil squad and will return to Barcelona for treatment.

Brazil forward Raphinha has been ruled out of the India vs Brazil clash in Kolkata after picking up a minor thigh injury during Brazil's 4-2 win over Australia. The Barcelona star has been released from the squad and will return to Spain for treatment, meaning he will miss the landmark October 3 friendly against India.

Raphinha injured during Australia game

Raphinha started Brazil's second friendly against Australia in Brisbane and scored from the penalty spot. However, he was substituted at half-time after experiencing discomfort in his right thigh.

An imaging examination later showed a small amount of muscle oedema in the back of his right thigh. Although the injury has been described as minor, Brazil have decided not to risk the forward, particularly because he has previously dealt with problems in the same area.

No replacement has been called up for the India match.

Brazil still have star power

Raphinha's absence will be a disappointment for Indian football fans, but Brazil will still arrive in Kolkata with several major names. Vinicius Junior, Endrick, Bruno Guimaraes and Marquinhos remain part of Carlo Ancelotti's squad.

Brazil are expected to reach Kolkata on October 1 ahead of the fixture at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan. The match will be the first senior international meeting between India and Brazil.

Brazil enter the game after beating Australia 4-2, following a 1-1 draw in their first meeting during the current international window.

India prepare for major challenge

India will enter the Brazil match after drawing 1-1 with Panama on September 26. Ryan Williams gave India the lead before Omar Valencia equalised for Panama.

The Brazil fixture is part of a demanding run for Khalid Jamil's side. India will face Brazil on October 3 before taking on Uruguay at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium on October 6.

Raphinha's withdrawal removes one of Brazil's biggest attacking names from the fixture, but the match remains a major test for India and a landmark occasion for Indian football.