Canadian soccer star Olivia Smith, who sustained an injury in a recent match against Switzerland, has returned to her club team in England for treatment for a hip pointer. Canada Soccer announced that the 21-year-old athlete from Whitby, Ontario, will undergo rehabilitation at Arsenal in London.
Additionally, young forward Kaylee Hunter has also departed from the national team due to a pre-existing injury and has gone back to AFC Toronto for recovery. The Canadian women’s team, currently ranked ninth globally, is preparing to face the 11th-ranked Netherlands following a 1-0 defeat against Switzerland.
Olivia Smith, who recently transferred from Liverpool to Arsenal for a record fee in July, suffered the injury during her first start for Canada. The incident occurred in the 32nd minute of the game after a collision with Swiss defender Viola Calligaris, resulting in Smith being sidelined for medical attention and eventually taken off the field on a golf cart.
Canada’s head coach, Casey Stoney, expressed concern over the treatment Smith received during the match and emphasized the importance of player safety. Smith, a two-time Canada Youth Player of the Year recipient, has showcased her talent in 19 senior appearances for the national team, contributing three goals and three assists.
Furthermore, Kaylee Hunter, known for her impressive performance in the Northern Super League with 14 goals and three assists this season, has been a standout player at the youth level. Despite missing out on the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup due to club commitments, Hunter’s potential has been recognized through her consistent scoring record since her international debut at the age of 15.
The Canadian team is focused on regrouping for their upcoming matches, including fixtures against Japan in the November FIFA window to conclude their 2025 campaign.
