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Ronaldo cleared to play against Turkey Posted: Tuesday June 25, 2002 6:39 AMSAITAMA, Japan (AP) -- Ronaldo has recovered from a leg muscle ailment and is fit to face Turkey in the World Cup semifinals Wednesday, Brazil's team doctor said. "The way he sprinted and moved we feel he is in condition to play," Dr. Jose Luis Runco said after practice Tuesday. Ronaldo complained of pain in his left thigh during Brazil's 2-1 win over England on Friday and was replaced in the 70th minute. An ultrasound scan on Saturday showed there was no serious injury, and Runco said the cause probably was strain from overwork. "There was no lesion," Runco said. "He had muscular fatigue, which can happen to any athlete." Ronaldo trained lightly Monday and felt no pain in the muscle. The workout Tuesday was heavier, and afterward the Inter striker was cleared was cleared to play for the entire 90 minutes -- and even overtime. "He can play the full time if necessary," Runco said, Ronaldo's legs have been a constant source of worry after two knee operations that kept him sidelined for nearly two years. When he returned to action last year, a series of muscle injuries further delayed his recovery. At the World Cup, his recovery has been surprising. In five games, Ronaldo has scored five goals and is tied with teammate Rivaldo and Germany's Miroslav Klose in the race for the Golden Boot. Runco said he didn't expect the problem to recur if Brazil reaches the final Sunday. "He had five days to rest, and I don't think we'll have this problem of tired muscles after the Turkey game," he said.
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