The medical staff at the Atletico-MG soccer team said on Sunday that Obina will need to undergo corrective surgery after he suffered a torn ligament in his left ankle during his team's 6-0 victory over Chapecoense on March 31.

"Unfortunately, Obina's left ankle is severely injured. The MRI confirmed that he ruptured his lateral ligaments. He will spend the next couple of days receiving special treatment on his ankle. Then, he will undergo corrective surgery to re-connect his ligaments. After his surgery, which is expected to take place on Tuesday, he will need three months to fully recuperate," said team's head doctor Rodrigo Lasmar.

Obina's injury came in the 1st minute of play in last Wednesday's match. The Chapecoense fullback, Rodrigo, entered in a dangerous slide tackle that wiped-out Obina's feet, but pined his left ankle on the grass, causing it to roll to outside.

Immediately after being taken off the field with a gurney, Obina was sent to the local hospital in Belo Horizonte. Initial x-rays showed that he did not break his ankle. Further studies were made on Saturday, taking an MRI to better observe the area. After an in-depth reading of the study, the team doctors said on Sunday the severity of his injury and the necessity to operate.

Atletico-MG will surely miss his presence as Obina has led his team in goals scored this year with 11. The good news for the club is that games in the 2010 Brazilian Championship will be paused during this year's World Cup. Obina is expected to return once the World Cup concludes in mid July. Enditem