Robinho to miss Ghana match

BERGISCH GLADBACH, Germany, June 26 (Reuters) Brazil forward Robinho will miss tomorrow's World Cup second round match against Ghana due to a thigh injury, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) said.

The 22-year-old, whose speed and trickery added a new dimension to the Brazilian attack in last week's 4-1 win over Japan, pulled up in training on Saturday.

He was seen clutching his right thigh during shooting practice.

''Robinho is ruled out of the match and will continue his physiotherapy,'' said the CBF on their official Web site today.

Robinho was taken to a clinic in Cologne for an MRI scan, which showed he had an edema in his right thigh but there were no ruptured tendons, the CBF said.

''Robinho is walking normally and is not feeling any pain in the area.'' Robinho has been quoted as saying he hoped treatment would help him shake off the injury and return to the side for Saturday's quarter-final if Brazil beat Ghana.

Robinho had been on the bench for Brazil's first two games before coming on in the second half. He was given the start against Japan and brought new life to the attack.

Robinho's absence means Adriano will probably return to the side to partner Ronaldo in attack. However, coach Carlos Alberto Parreira could also move Ronaldinho up front and bring Juninho Pernambucano into midfield.

Reuters PDS RS1822