Doctor: Havelange's condition slightly improved


RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (AP) -- A Brazilian hospital says former FIFA president Joao Havelange is breathing without the aid of a ventilator after having been admitted with an infection in his right ankle.

The Samaritano Hospital said in a statement Thursday that there is a "slight improvement" in the former IOC member's condition but his health "still requires close attention."

The statement marked the first time that Dr. Joao Mansur Filho didn't use the word "serious" to describe Havelange's condition.

The 95-year-old Havelange was hospitalized Sunday with septic arthritis, a dangerous bacterial infection which affects the joints and can spread quickly if not treated effectively with antibiotics.