Rayan set to replace Raphinha in the round of 16 against Japan

With Raphinha out due to a muscular thigh injury, the Brazilian national team take the field against Japan in the World Cup round of 16 with Bournemouth forward Rayan as the main candidate to take over the attacking spot. Carlo Ancelotti has little room for speculation: the lineup is shaping up almost by elimination.

The injury that complicates Ancelotti’s plans

Raphinha came off injured in the game against Haiti and has since followed the group from a distance, racing against the clock to return before Brazil are eliminated. The player himself used social media to dispel any doubts about his determination: “I will do everything in my power to return as quickly as possible. I want to be alongside my teammates, fight for our goals and keep giving everything to honour this shirt and bring joy to the Brazilian fans. I am strong.”

The problem is that “as quickly as possible” may come too late for the round of 16. The expectation is that he will not yet be in match condition at this stage.

Rayan ahead of Neymar in the fight for a starting spot

Neymar, although still available, appears as the second option for the sector. The number 10 has aged on the pitch: he remains a valuable resource, but not the starting point. Rayan, on the other hand, has already shown understanding with the rest of the attack – against Haiti, it was he who set up Vinicius Jr for one of the number 7’s two goals. That direct involvement in the game weighed in the coaching staff’s assessment.

Matheus Cunha continues as centre-forward. The player has met expectations well and there is no reason to take him out.

Rest of the team without major changes

Alisson keeps the goal. In defence, the only real doubt is between Douglas Santos and Alex Sandro at left-back. The midfield should not change either: Bruno Guimarães left the previous match with two assists, Lucas Paquetá and Casemiro fulfilled their roles well.

A warning is worth noting: Casemiro, Fabinho and Danilo are on a tightrope regarding suspensions. One yellow card and any of the three sits out the next game. It could be decisive going forward.

Brazil reached the round of 16 without scares, but also without brilliance. They drew with Morocco and steamrolled Haiti and Scotland with a certain coldness. Against Japan, who defend well and exploit transitions with pace, the Seleção will need more than mere management.