Referees must be tougher says Elano

Brazil's Elano believes referees at the World Cup are being too soft when it comes to punishing harsh play.

Elano was stretchered off with a shin injury after a tackle from Ivory Coast defender Cheik Tiote during Sunday's 3-1 victory.

"I forgive because I am not a player that feels remorse," he said. "But I believe referees should be much tougher because in this case the foul was committed close to where the official (Stephane Lannoy) was."

The good news for the former Manchester City midfielder, who scored his side's third goal against the Ivory Coast, is that he has avoided a serious injury.

"I have something but it's less serious than first feared," he said.

"I will do everything possible so that I can play in our next game."

This will be a relief for Brazil coach Dunga, who will be without the inspirational Kaka for Friday's match against Portugal.

The Real Madrid star will serve a one-match ban having been controversially sent off against the Ivory Coast.

The 29-year-old Elano has proved pivotal for the South Americans, scoring in both of his team's opening two Group G games.

Brazil, who have already assured themselves a place in the last 16, top the group by two points over second-place Portugal.