Dudinha Confirms ACL and Meniscus Tears After Leaving Brazil–USA Friendly on Stretcher

Overview

• Dudinha was injured during Brazil’s friendly with the United States and left the pitch on a stretcher after a strong challenge in the first half of the match on Tuesday.
• Team medics treated her at the sideline, Bia Zaneratto replaced her, and the Brazilian Football Confederation initially said detailed imaging would follow to diagnose the knee.
• The forward later confirmed on her social media that she tore the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and damaged meniscus in her right knee.
• Medical reports put recovery at about eight months, which typically requires surgery and a long rehabilitation period and has prompted concern about her availability for national and club duties.
• Dudinha is a 20-year-old San Diego Wave FC player who became a regular starter for Brazil; her absence will force coach Arthur Elias to adjust attacking options and depth as the team prepares for future tournaments.