Ronaldo to play for Portugal with hurt shoulder

(AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

MADRID (AP) Cristiano Ronaldo has been cleared to play for Portugal in its upcoming World Cup qualifiers despite injuring his left shoulder in Real Madrid's 2-2 tie at Barcelona.

After examining the forward Monday, team doctors determined he could take part.

Ronaldo arrived at Portugal's training camp Monday, and team doctor Henrique Jones says the shoulder injury is "slight."

Portugal plays at Russia on Friday and at home against Northern Ireland on Oct. 16.

Jones says: "We'll do everything we can to get him ready. We think that's possible."

Ronaldo scored both of Madrid's goals Sunday to match Lionel Messi's two as the teams split the points. He fell hard on his left shoulder after attempting an overhead kick in the second half.

Updated October 8, 2012