By Fitzgerald Cecilio

Brazil's hopes of winning its first Olympic gold medal have suffered a big blow as goalkeeper Rafael Cabral suffered a right elbow injury and was ruled out of the London Games.

The 22-year-old goalkeeper was Brazil's first choice throughout its campaign in London but he suffered an injury after colliding with a practice dummy as he reached for a ball.

He resumed practice after the incident but doctors decided to conduct further examination after pain persisted.

"He suffered elbow trauma and, after examining him, he was in pain and had very little mobility," Brazil doctor Jose Luis Runco said.

"He needs rest and, as we have only two goalkeepers we had to take the time to sit down and talk with the coaching staff about the need to swap players," he added.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced that coach Mano Menezes has opted for 23-year-old Neto as Rafael's replacement, and Gabriel, 19, will be the reserve.

"I'll always be ready. For he who prepares well and is focused there can be no room for doubts," said Neto, who has yet to play for the national team.

"The competition is almost upon us and is about to start, we can't spend much time feeling sorry . We've got to get over it, lift our heads and seek that gold medal for Rafael," Neto added.

Brazil is set to make its Olympic debut in Group C against Egypt in Cardiff's Millennium Stadium. The Brazilians will also meet Belarus and New Zealand.

 

 

Brazil Keeper Rafael Suffers Elbow Injury Out for Olympics