Alonso should be fit despite spraining ankle

Spain’s Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso should be fit for their World Cup last 16 match with Portugal despite spraining his right ankle in the 2-1 victory over Group G rivals Chile on Friday.

The 28-year-old former Liverpool star suffered the injury just before half-time but played on until he was replaced in the 73rd minute in a game which saw the European champions qualify for the second round along with their opponents.

“The first x-ray confirmed that he had sprained his right ankle when he was violently tackled,” said Spanish team doctor Oscar Luis Celada.

“But we are optimistic that he will be fit for the second round match.”

Alonso, a member of the Euro 2008 winning side, has until Tuesday to prove his fitness when the Spanish take on the 2006 World Cup semi-finalists in Cape Town.