San Diego Wave’s star forward and 2026 MVP candidate, Dudinha, announced on Wednesday in a social media post that she has suffered ACL and meniscus injuries in her right knee on Tuesday in Brazil’s friendly against the United States Women’s National Team.
“I want to start by thanking everyone for the outpouring of love I’ve received over the last few hours. Every message and every word has meant so much amidst the whirlwind of emotions I’m experiencing,” said Dudinha in Portuguese in an Instagram
post. “Unfortunately, I’ll be sidelined for a while to recover—a time that is always full of difficulties and challenges for any athlete. After yesterday’s match, tests confirmed ACL and meniscus injuries.
“Despite the deep sadness I feel and the process of trying to process everything, I continue to trust in God’s plan with even greater faith! He has always been—and remains—by my side, and I know He will be my rock during this journey, alongside my family, friends, and teammates. Thank you all! 🙏🏽🥹”
Around the 30th minute of the match Dudinha and USWNT midfielder Emily Sonnett challenged for a ball at the same time. Sonnett fell to the ground making it difficult for Dudinha to land. The Brazilian extended her right leg out wide and landed hard sending lots of force into her right knee. She reacted nearly immediately and received treatment from the medical staff, before ultimately being stretchered off.
The 20-year-old forward has arguably become the most important part of San Diego Wave’s attack with her dynamic play on the left wing that opposing teams must confront. She has started all 13 matches for the Wave in 2026 and has earned five goals and four assists. Jonas Eidevall’s club has favored the left side of the pitch because of Dudinha’s speed, skill and technical ability which not only creates scoring opportunities for her, but exposes defenses on the right side.
It’s unclear how long Dudinha’s injury will sideline her, but the Wave will need to find an answer for her absence. Melanie Barcenas may be able to play on the left side in her place, while marquee signing, Catarina Macario’s injury timeline is still unclear. Adriana Leon may also be available after the midseason break after she has missed the first 13 matches with a back injury, but was seen playing in the team’s friendly against the Philippines Women’s National Team.
Interestingly, the Wave’s first match back from the NWSL midseason break will be against Sonnett’s Gotham FC on July 4, in San Diego.
