Kaka gets Brazil Copa call-up, replacing injured Douglas Costa

by
Reuters

Orlando City SC's Kaka will be taking part in Brazil's Copa America Centenario campaign after all, with coach Dunga calling up the 34-year-old to replace injured Bayern Munich winger Douglas Costa.

Costa's thigh injury has opened the door for the 91-time capped Canarinho, who will join his countrymen at the StubHub Centre in Los Angeles for pre-tournament training, the Brazilian football federation announced late Thursday night.

Originally named to Dunga's 40-man provisional squad, the former AC Milan star was left off the final 23-man roster, with the gaffer opting for a younger midfield core.

Kaka is now the most capped player on Brazil's squad and is its highest scorer with 29 goals, next closest is Zenit's Hulk with 12.

A veteran of three World Cups, including the 2002 finals victory over Germany, and a member of two Confederation Cup squads, this summer's tournament will mark the first time Kaka has played in a Copa America.

Brazil will be looking to win its eighth Copa America title, third behind Argentina's 14 and Uruguay's 15 titles.

Advertisement