Brazil Sweat Over Raphinha Fitness Before Norway Showdown

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has offered a cautious but hopeful update on Raphinha ahead of Sunday's round-of-16 clash with Norway, according to Reuters.

Ancelotti told reporters that the winger is progressing well but is not yet fully fit, and could be available from the bench for a short spell if needed. The coach described Raphinha as a very important player for the team and expressed satisfaction at how quickly he has recovered.

Brazil will also need to reshuffle their midfield after Lucas Paqueta suffered a hamstring strain in the previous round win over Japan, according to Reuters. Paqueta's absence means Ancelotti faces decisions about how best to set up his side against a Norway team built around Erling Haaland, whose threat the Brazilians will be working hard to contain.

The match is a significant test for this new-look Brazil side under their Italian coach. Haaland has already broken Norway's World Cup scoring record at the tournament, making him arguably the most dangerous striker left in the draw.