Brazilian Defender Danilo Ruled out of World Cup

Brazil right-back Danilo picked up an ankle injury in a training session on Thursday. Now, he has been ruled out of the rest of the World Cup as a result.

The Manchester City defender participated in Brazil’s opening 1-1 draw with Switzerland in Group E as a replacement for an injured Dani Alves.

Danilo’s World Cup is now over, with the news coming ahead of Brazil’s clash with Belgium in the quarterfinals.

According to a statement on the Brazilian team’s official website: “Right-back Danilo suffered a ligament injury in his left ankle after sprains in training this Thursday in Kazan.

“Accompanied by the doctor of the Brazilian national team, Rodrigo Lasmar, the player performed image tests that confirmed the injury and he doe not have sufficient time of recovery in the period of dispute of the World Cup.

“In conversation with the technical committee, Danilo requested and will remain with the cast, having begun treatment with the medical department of the national team.”

Brazil are aiming to secure a sixth World Cup and will be facing France in the semifinals if they beat Belgium. But they will have to do it in the absence of Danilo.

The 26-year old had only just recovered from a hip injury that had ruled him out of Brazil’s last two group games. Right back, Fagner, stepped up to take his place in the side and kept it for the last-16 win over Mexico.

The 29-year old will once again step in as Danilo’s replacement in the lineup against Belgium. With all things said and done, this should be a tasty encounter between the two sides. Can Brazil win their 6th FIFA World Cup or will the Belgians spoil the party? With France downing Uruguay earlier today, the winner of this match will square off against France.