Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Brazil soccer confederation acknowledges Kaka unlikely for Beijing Olympics

The Brazilian soccer confederation admits Brazil may not be able to rely on Kaka to be advailable for the Beijing Olympics.

"It's going to be very difficult," CBF president Ricardo Teixeira told TV Bandeirantes late Sunday. "We are not in a position to demand his release."

The AC Milan player has been saying he wants to help Brazil try to win its first Olympic gold in soccer, but he would need to be released by his Italian club.

Depending on Milan's finish in the Italian league, it may need to play in next year's European Champions League qualifying round, which has conflicting dates with the Olympics. Milan is currently fourth in the standings, and the top four will qualify.

Even if released by Milan, the 26-year-old Kaka must be summoned by Brazil coach Dunga as one of three players over 23 years old allowed to supplement each squad.

He was young enough to play in the 2004 Olympics in Athens, but Brazil failed to qualify. Kaka was not released by Milan to play South America's qualifying event for the 2004 Olympics.

He will be 30 years old for the 2012 London Olympics.

http://www.iht.com/bin/printfriendly.php?id=12592227

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