体坛英语新闻：Ronaldo, Felipe back to Corinthians practice

RIO DE JANEIRO, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Both Ronaldo and Felipe returned to the practice field on Monday for the Brazil's Corinthians soccer team.

The striker and goalkeeper return in time to face the Uruguayan team Racing on April 14 for the Libertadores Cup.

After missing the cut-off to make the playoffs of the Sao Paulo state championship, both players took an extended break. Ronaldo returned to the field after recovering from a cold while star goalie Felipe recuperated from physical wear.

Another novelty for the team was the rookie Marcelo Mattos at midfield. Felipe fully recovered from a pulled right hamstring. He sat out of the team's last four matches. Rafael Santos filled in for the experienced Felipe. The veteran in expected to return to defend the Corinthians' goal against Racing.

Ronaldo went back to the practice field after receiving a leave of absence due to a common cold. The striker missed Friday's and Saturday's team practice.

Returning to action, Ronaldo coupled with Dentinho as the team' s strikers. Due to Moacir's left ankle injury, Marcelo Mattos stepped in during Monday's practice. The athlete is expected to make his first start for the team against Racing on Wednesday.

Due to Corinthians' exit from the Sao Paulo state championship, the team will focus their energy on the Libertadores Cup and the beginning of the Brazilian Championship.

With a win against Racing on Wednesday, Corinthians will guarantee their participation in the next round of play of the Libertadores Cup, passing through Group one. In the last round of the first phase of the tournament, Corinthians will host the Columbian team, Independiente Medellin on April 22.