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Brazilian winger Raphinha caused alarm on the Brazil bench after picking up an injury in the first half of their second group-stage match against Haiti at the World Cup.

Television cameras captured the Barcelona star crouched on the pitch, being consoled by teammate Vinícius Júnior, as Brazil’s medical staff rushed in to evaluate his condition while the team led 2-0.

The injury appeared to occur off the ball, prompting BBC Sport to suggest that the 29-year-old might have suffered a muscle strain, though official confirmation is still awaited.

Brazilian publication Globo also indicated that Raphinha may have sustained a muscular issue, noting that he was seen clutching the back of his right thigh while in conversation with the medical team.

This setback comes as veteran forward Neymar missed a second consecutive group-stage game due to a lingering calf injury picked up late in the domestic season while playing for Santos FC.

Raphinha was replaced by Rayan, who made his World Cup debut and only his third appearance for the national team, following a strong Premier League campaign with Bournemouth that saw him net five goals in 15 matches.

Vinícius extended Brazil’s lead to 3-0 before the interval, temporarily restoring their position at the top of Group C.

Raphinha’s potential absence represents another blow to Brazil’s attacking depth on the flanks. The Seleção currently sit level on four points with Morocco, who secured a 1-0 victory over Scotland, leaving the Scots just one point behind in third place.

If the injury sidelines Raphinha for an extended period, he might miss Brazil’s round of 32 encounter, depending on their final group position.

All eyes will now turn to Brazil’s decisive final group match against Scotland next Wednesday at 23:00 (BST). Head coach Carlo Ancelotti could be forced to manage this crucial fixture without one of his most creative forwards.