Corinthians to play Emelec without center-back Marquinhos

Rio de Janeiro, May 1 (IANS) Brazilian club Corinthians will play Ecuador's Emelec in Copa Libertadores without defender Marquinhos, who has been barred from leaving the country.

Marquinhos, 17, was told by federal police at Sao Paulo's Guarulhos airport Monday he couldn't depart without the written consent of his parents due to his age.

The club later confirmed the center-back had since obtained the necessary permission and would travel alone for the round of 16 first-leg match Wednesday in the coastal city of Guayaquil.

Marquinhos is considered one of Brazil's brightest talents and has been included in coach Mano Menezes' preliminary squad for the London Olympics.