Extended highlights - Brazil 3-1 Ivory Coast

Brazil midfielder Elano believes World Cup referees should be sterner when it comes to punishing dangerous play.

The 29-year-old was stretchered off with a shin injury after he was tackled by Ivory Coast defender Cheik Tiote in Brazil's 3-1 win on Sunday.

But the injury is not as bad as first feared and Elano hopes to be fit for Brazil's final group game on Friday.

"I forgive as I am not a player that feels remorse but I believe referees should be much tougher," said Elano.

"In this case the foul was committed close to where the official [Stephane Lannoy] was."

Elano has been pivotal for Brazil, scoring a goal in both their Group G games so far as the South Americans booked their place in last 16 with a match to spare.

Elano scores from close range

The former Manchester City player wants to help his side maintain momentum in their final group game against Portugal in Durban, with a victory ensuring them top spot.

"I have something but it's less serious than first feared," he added. "I will do everything possible so that I can play in our next game."

Elano's availability will be a big boost for coach Dunga as he is without without midfielder Kaka, who is suspended for one match following his controversial sending off against Ivory Coast.

Meanwhile, Dunga has escaped punishment for the comments he made to journalists following last Sunday's game in Johannesburg.

Fifa's disciplinary committee studied footage of the post-match press conference and found no grounds to take any action.

Kaka controversially sent off

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