Cardozo 'could play against Italy'

Paraguay have dismissed suggestions that Oscar Cardozo could be out of the World Cup through injury and declared the striker could yet make next week's opening match against Italy.

Cardozo, who scored 36 goals in all competitions for Benfica last season, has been struggling with an ankle injury that he sustained in April and has been training separately from the rest of the Paraguay squad.

The injury had led to fears the 27-year-old could be ruled out of the group stages, and possibly even the tournament, but Paraguay team doctor Manuel Aguilar insists the news is much more positive.

"I must clarify that Oscar Cardozo is not out of the World Cup, as has been implied in some media. What's more, neither has he been ruled out of the first game," said Aguilar.

"Cardozo arrived with his ankle quite inflamed and damaged, however with treatment it has improved considerably. Everything's going well and the problem is now minimal."

Paraguay meet Italy in Cape Town on Monday in their first Group F match.