Song banned for three matches

Brasilia - Cameroon midfielder Alex Song has been banned for three matches after his sending off in their Soccer World Cup Group A defeat by Croatia, organisers FIFA said on Sunday.

The midfielder was dismissed for elbowing Croatia striker Mario Mandzukic in the back during the first half of their 4-0 defeat in Manaus on Wednesday which meant they could no longer qualify for the knockout stages.

The Africans, who lost 1-0 to Mexico in their opener, face hosts Brazil in Brasilia on Monday in their final Group A match.