Raphinha netted his third goal for Brazil at international level on Tuesday as Brazil eased to a 4-0 win over Paraguay in 2022 World Cup qualifying. Brazilian newspaper Globo handed him an 8/10 rating for his efforts.
The 25-year-old, said to be the subject of surprise interest from West Ham United towards the end of the January window, picked up his seventh cap for the Selecao. Brazil hosted Paraguay, and were excellent in a 4-0 win.
Brazil have already qualified for the World Cup in Qatar, sitting top of the 10-nation round robin. The top four go through, and fifth enter a qualifier – and Brazil are 18 points above fifth-placed Peru with four to play.
So, while there was nothing major to play for, Brazil will still want to finish above Argentina in the table – and so it showed on Tuesday night. Raphinha was in majestic form, his side’s biggest threat in the absence of Neymar.
Even before opening the scoring, Raphinha had a goal disallowed – finishing neatly off the post. His eventual goal was stunning, perfect control, cut inside and typical Raphinha finish. His third Brazil goal in seven caps.
Globo gave Raphinha an 8/10, and said: “He scored a goal that ended up being disallowed and then he scored a beautiful goal, getting rid of the marker. He also hit post and had a good second half too.”
Raphinha shines for Brazil: Can Leeds keep hold of their star talent?
Raphinha is simply outgrowing Leeds at the moment. The Whites are said to be in talks with his agent, Deco, over a new contract but ultimately, the winger is going to leave Leeds behind with these type of performances.
This season, he has been enigmatic for Leeds – and is shining for Brazil. Ahead of the 2022 World Cup, he is expected to start on the flanks alongside Neymar and Gabriel Jesus. Can Leeds keep him this summer? Maybe.
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