Cardozo could miss World Cup

Cardozo: Injury fear

Paraguay's World Cup preparations have been dealt a blow by the news that Oscar Cardozo could miss the event.

The strike ace has been struggling with a niggling injury throughout the build-up to the tournament and is unable to shake off the problem.

The 27-year-old injured his ankle a fortnight ago in training and has been facing a race against time ever since.

Unfortunately his condition has failed to improve over the past two weeks and Paraguay's team doctor admits the omens do not look good for Cardozo.

"He could barely kick the ball so he didn't train," said Horacio Cartes after the squad were put through their paces on Thursday.

There are now fears the Benfica frontman could be sidelined for the entire summer, preventing him from fulfilling his World Cup dream.

Paraguay are set to get their campaign up and running against Italy on Monday, and will also face Slovakia and New Zealand in Group F.