Luiz out of Brazil friendly

Peter Marshall

Luiz out of Brazil friendly image

The Paris Saint-Germain defender suffered cartilage damage to his left knee during Friday's 1-0 victory over Colombia in Miami and will miss Tuesday's meeting with Sixto Vizuete's side.

A statement on the Brazilian Football Confederation's (CAF) website on Sunday confirmed: "David Luiz suffered an injury to the cartilage of the patella in his left knee during the game against Colombia, and is unable to play on Tuesday [against] Ecuador.

"The player did tests, under the assistance of the Brazilian team, who observed the clinical diagnosis made by the medical doctor."

The news comes as a blow to new coach Dunga, who has returned to lead the Selecao following their humiliating 7-1 semi-final exit from the World Cup at the hands of eventual winners Germany.

Dunga is already without Luiz's centre-back partner and club colleague Thiago Silva, who suffered a hamstring problem in pre-season.

Neymar has replaced Silva as captain of the national team since the World Cup and will again lead the side in midweek, with his goal having proved decisive against Colombia.

Peter Marshall

Peter Marshall Photo

Peter Marshall has worked in sports media for more than two decades, covering everything from boxing, F1 and tennis to the World Cup and Olympics.