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Jeff Kassouf
Multiple Authors
Brazil and San Diego Wave FC forward Dudinha announced on Wednesday that early scans have revealed injuries to her right ACL and meniscus, indicating she will be sidelined for “a while.”
She shared the update via her Instagram, just one day after injuring her knee during Brazil’s 1-0 defeat against the United States. The injury occurred in the 33rd minute of the match following a clash with U.S. defender Emily Sonnett, resulting in her being stretchered off the field.
Dudinha has been a standout player in the 2026 NWSL season, contributing five goals and four assists for the Wave, who are currently leading the league as the Men’s World Cup break approaches.
Her total of nine goals and assists ties her for second place in the NWSL as the season reaches its midpoint.
The Wave will return to action on July 4, following a month-long break in the league schedule.
Dudinha’s injury came during a tumultuous match characterized by excessive physicality between Brazil and the United States.
A total of eight red cards were issued, with four directed at Brazil’s staff and four to its players, alongside nine yellow cards. There were 28 foul calls in total, with Brazil committing 20.
Brazil’s head coach Arthur Elias expressed frustration with the officiating after the game, stating, “I think the match was influenced by the refereeing throughout. It wasn’t just in the second half. What happened today is not normal.” He added, “What occurred was the most disrespectful experience I’ve had with a referee ensemble, particularly the assistant referee standing right next to me and the referee himself.” Elias emphasized that the Brazilian team and its players felt disrespected, but he acknowledged the quality of the U.S. team and their coach’s preparations: “The U.S. came here and played a great game.”