New Jersey, July 1 -- Brazil might have suffered a major blow to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign as injured midfielder Lucas Paqueta is likely to be sidelined for three weeks, according to ESPN.

Paqueta sustained a hamstring injury during Brazil's Round of 32 victory over Japan and is now in a race against time to recover. Paqueta has been a key figure in Carlo Ancelotti's side throughout the tournament, making his potential absence a significant blow to Brazil's World Cup campaign.

Notably, Paqueta limped off at half-time during Brazil's 2-1 win over Japan.

"Paqueta underwent an imaging exam that confirmed a muscle injury in the back of his left thigh," Brazil's Football Confederation (CBF) said in a statement.

"The player will fo...