Brazilian football legend Cafu has come to the defense of Raphinha, who was criticized after sustaining an injury during a friendly match against France on March 26, 2026, in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Raphinha, who plays for FC Barcelona, is expected to be sidelined for five weeks, missing key matches in the Champions League quarter-finals against Atletico Madrid. Cafu emphasized that when called up for the national team, players must give 100%, especially with the World Cup 2026 approaching. He noted that Raphinha has the opportunity to make history as a world champion and should dedicate himself fully to the Seleção. Cafu dismissed suggestions that the situation could have been handled differently, asserting that injuries are inherent to football and can occur at any time, whether in training or during a match. Currently, there is hope that Raphinha could return in time for the highly anticipated El Clasico in May.