03/06/2009
Ronaldo fit to return to action with Corinthians
Ronaldo is fully fit and expected to be back in the Corinthians team
when the Sao Paulo giants seek to clinch qualification for the Copa do
Brasil finals by defeating Vasco da Gama.
The three-time FIFA World Player of the Year missed his team's last
three games due to a shin injury but coach Mano Menezes may field him in
the second leg of the tie after a 1-1 draw in the first game in Rio de
Janeiro.
Ronaldo said the injury had come about because of the demanding sequence
of matches he had played.
"These type of injuries are common, but the number of matches made me
stop" he said. "It is always Wednesdays and Sundays.
"We cannot do a specific job on strength and speed. That is why I had to
stop the progression of my physical condition.
"We have a priority now and it is the Copa do Brasil. We have to do our
best because it is a short way to get to the Copa Libertadores next year."
Vasco da Gama left-back Ramon believes his team need to pressurise
Corinthians to clinch an early goal at the Pacaembu.
He told GloboEsporte.com: "The Copa do Brasil matches are always
difficult and we must pay attention. It is a matter of intelligence and
we have to block the key players of Corinthians.
"We must make our team work properly from the kick-off to pressure
Corinthians and try to score a goal in the opening minutes."
Also tomorrow, Coritiba must overcome a two-goal deficit after the
current national league leaders Internacional beat them 3-1 in the first
leg in Porto Alegre.
Coach Rene Simoes wants supporters to help them at the Couto Pereira.
"Fans can make the difference" he said. "Inter have better elements, but
we'll have a crowded stadium.
"Inter have been unbeaten for 25 games. It is the outstanding team at
the moment. However, the more a team win, the closer a defeat is."
Inter's 19-year-old midfielder Giuliano said: "Coritiba have proved they
are a big team by reaching the semi-finals, but we'll make things very
difficult for them. We'll have difficulties, but we are ready to play a
great match."
