Portuguese football star Kika Nazareth has been released from national team duty following an ankle injury, putting her participation in a key Women’s Champions League match at risk.
Nazareth was withdrawn from the squad Saturday after sustaining an injury during a friendly match against the Netherlands, which Portugal lost 2-1.
The trauma to her left ankle means the Barcelona forward will miss Portugal’s upcoming match against Brazil. The national team is scheduled to play Brazil on Tuesday in Aveiro.
Beyond national team commitments, her availability for Barcelona’s Women’s Champions League clash against Benfica is also in doubt. That significant club match is set for December 10.
The Portuguese Football Federation confirmed Nazareth’s release on its official website.