Brazil midfielder Lucas Paquetá faces a race against time to recover from a hamstring injury ahead of the World Cup knockout stages. The 28-year-old limped off during Brazil's 2-1 victory over Japan and subsequent imaging confirmed a muscle injury in his left thigh. He will follow an intensive treatment protocol under the national team's medical staff.

Paquetá has been ruled out for Sunday's round of 16 match against Norway in New Jersey. Sources indicate he suffered a Grade II strain, typically requiring three weeks of recovery. The former West Ham player started all four of Brazil's tournament matches before this setback. His absence creates a significant gap in Brazil's midfield options.

Brazil already contends with another injury concern as Raphinha remains sidelined with his own hamstring problem sustained against Haiti. Bournemouth winger Rayan has filled in for Raphinha during the group stage. Both injuries test Brazil's depth as they advance deeper into the competition.

Paquetá expressed determination on Instagram, writing 'Faith...I've been through this before,' referencing previous injury battles. Whether Brazil's medical team can accelerate his recovery timeline remains uncertain, but the timeline suggests he may miss the remainder of the tournament.