Canadian forward Olivia Smith, a prominent player, sustained an injury during a 1-0 defeat against Switzerland and has now returned to her English club, Arsenal, for treatment for a hip pointer. The national team also bid farewell to teenage forward Kaylee Hunter, who missed the Swiss match due to a pre-existing injury and has headed back to AFC Toronto for further rehabilitation.
Canada Soccer disclosed that Smith, a 21-year-old from Whitby, Ont., will be concentrating on her recovery at Arsenal. The Canadian women’s team, currently ranked ninth globally, is preparing to face the Netherlands, ranked 11th, in their upcoming match in Nijmegen following the loss to Switzerland.
Smith, who recently joined Arsenal from Liverpool for a record transfer fee, was injured during her first appearance for Canada. She suffered the injury in a collision with a Swiss defender during the game and had to be assisted off the field.
Coach Casey Stoney expressed disappointment over Smith’s recurring injuries, highlighting her importance to the team. Smith, a two-time Canada Youth Player of the Year, has made significant contributions with three goals and three assists in her 19 senior appearances for the national team.
Hunter, on the other hand, missed the U-17 Women’s World Cup due to club commitments but has been a prolific scorer at the youth level. The 17-year-old, known for her 14 goals and three assists in the Northern Super League this season, is aiming to recover swiftly and return to action.