Brazilian attacker Vinicius Junior will miss Tuesday’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Argentina due to an injury to his left thigh, the Brazilian Football Confederation has confirmed.

The 23-year-old Real Madrid star sustained the injury during Brazil’s 2-1 loss to Colombia on Thursday. 

Vinicius “underwent imaging exams that confirmed an injury to his posterior left thigh muscle,” the Brazilian Football Confederation said Friday in a statement.

Imaging exams revealed a posterior left thigh muscle injury, ruling him out of next week’s match against arch-rivals and 2022 World Cup champions Argentina in Rio de Janeiro.

Vinicius, a key player in Brazil’s attacking lineup, expressed his disappointment about the setback, stating, “Based on what the doctors have told me, it will be a bit difficult” to be fit for the Argentina clash.

The Madrid star’s absence adds to Brazil’s injury woes, with goalkeeper Ederson, defender Danilo, midfielder and captain Casemiro, and star attacker Neymar already sidelined due to various injuries.

Despite these setbacks, Brazil remains determined to secure victory against Argentina, who lead the South American qualifying standings. The match will take place on Tuesday at Rio’s Maracana Stadium.