London: Ronaldinho, the Barcelona midfield player, believes Brazil can live up to their billing as World Cup favourites and defend the trophy at this summer’s finals in Germany. The 26-year-old was part of the Brazil team that lifted the trophy in 2002 and he predicts a sixth World Cup win for Brazil four years on.

“I think that it will be Brazil’s World Cup,” Ronaldinho said in a television interview. “I don’t think about standing out or being more or less the best. I simply want to do my best so that Brazil will be the world champions. “The most important thing is that Brazil reaches the final and wins.”

Aimar leaves hospital

Madrid: Valencia’s Argentina midfielder Pablo Aimar left hospital on Wednesday after being treated for a form of viral meningitis.

“I am looking forward to playing again as soon as possible and helping my team over their remaining league matches,” Aimar told the club’s website.

No date was given for the 26-year-old’s return to training. Aimar, a key figure in Argentine coach Jose Pekerman’s World Cup plans, was admitted to hospital a week ago complaining of fever and headaches. Doctors said it was a benign form of meningitis that would not have any permanent consequences.

Brazil deal

New York: Nike and Brazil’s federation have reached an agreement to extend it’s sponsorship contract until 2018. The federation will receive $12 million a year and a $6 million bonus if Brazil wins their sixth World Cup title.