Overview
- Raphinha told reporters Wednesday that he admires Carlo Ancelotti’s career and wants to ‘‘do for him everything I did against him’’ by delivering strong performances for Brazil.
- Brazil prepare to open Group C at MetLife Stadium against Morocco next Saturday and team staff say Neymar is expected to be unavailable for that match because of a calf problem.
- Raphinha arrives off a prolific club season for Barcelona, finishing with about 21 goals and several assists, and says he feels better prepared for a second World Cup than he did in 2022.
- Fitness is a concern because Raphinha missed multiple Brazil friendlies between October and March with injuries, which leaves selection and minutes for attackers like him and Vinícius Júnior under scrutiny.
- Ancelotti’s first major tournament in charge raises tactical questions as Brazil chase a sixth World Cup title and must manage a tight schedule that rewards quick recovery and few mistakes.