Raphinha backs Vinicius Jr and himself to deliver Brazil's sixth World Cup

Barcelona winger Raphinha said from the national team's training camp that he and Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior can lead Brazil to a sixth World Cup. He stressed the need to end a drought dating back to 2002, and with Neymar unfit it will fall on players like Vinicius and Raphinha to make the difference in big games.

Raphinha defended Vinicius despite a difficult club campaign: Madrid failed to secure a major title in the 2025-26 season, though he still netted 22 goals in 53 appearances. "Vini is young, but due to his experience and his achievements he can resolve a World Cup match and bring the sixth championship; I include myself in that group," Raphinha said.

The winger reflected on his own injury-plagued season with Barcelona but noted his 21 goals in 33 appearances, and he emphasised defensive work. "We arrive very well prepared. We have to train the defensive part a lot. If we defend well, the possibility of winning is very big.

Brazil

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