Ayala doubt for Sweden tie

June 9, 2002

Argentina defender Robert Ayala is in danger of not making an appearance in the World Cup finals.

Ayala, who has not played in the tournament so far, is doubtful for Argentina's final group match against Sweden - a game the pre-tournament favourites must win to make the second round.

In contrast, the Swedes have been given a timely boost for the Group F showdown, with news that injured skipper Patrik Andersson could be fit.

Valencia defender Ayala has not been able to resume full training because of the thigh injury he sustained in the pre-match warm-up of Argentina's first Group F match against Nigeria.

But there is good news for Argentina concerning striker Claudio Caniggia, who has not played since picking up a knee injury a month ago.

The Rangers striker is now back in full training and could be named among the substitutes for the match against Nigeria.

Meanwhile, the Swedish camp were hopeful that Barcelona defender Andersson would be available for selection to face Argentina in a match from which the Swedes need just a point to qualify and send the favourites home.

Swedish team doctor Anders Valentin said Andersson - who also missed Sweden's opening two group matches - was recovering well from a hip injury.

Valentin said: "Patrick is coming along well.

"Today we can say that we're optimistic he will play in the next match.

"Tomorrow he'll have a special fitness test and if there's no reaction then he will start training with the rest of the squad."

Sweden are also confident that midfielder Daniel Andersson will recover from a thigh injury in time for the Argentina match.

BBC Sport Online