Add The New York Post on Google Emily Sonnett left the field on a stretcher in an ominous moment during Gotham FC’s 2-2 draw Friday night in Portland.
The non-contact injury occurred in the 11th minute, and Gotham called it a “suspected left knee injury.”
Sonnett, 32, is an instrumental player at center back for Gotham, the defending NWSL champions, who moved to the top of the standings by claiming one point against the Thorns.
“It’s always hard when you lose one of your best players,” acting head coach Shaun Harris said.
“Emily is someone who really organizes the team, understands the game plan well and is good on the ball. … Emily is one of our key players and a leader on and off the pitch. It’s really difficult when you lose such a great and important player that early in the game.”
Sonnett is also a regular for the U.S. women’s national team, and the 2027 World Cup is now less than 11 months away.
Emily Sonnett is attended to Friday night. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect Sam Kerr scored her first goal since returning to the NWSL to help Gotham pull out the draw.
Kerr scored off a corner kick for her first goal since joining Gotham earlier this month after more than six seasons at Chelsea.
Emily Sonnett during a July 18 match. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect She also drew a red card on Portland defender Jayden Perry in the 73rd minute, but Gotham did not score again against 10 Thorns players.
Guro Reiten found an unmarked Midge Purce in the second minute to give Gotham the early lead.
Portland responded in the 21st minute with Renee Lyle’s narrow angle shot. Pietra Tordin was credited with her league-leading seventh assist.
The Thorns took the lead in the 53rd minute on a deflected shot from midfielder Jessie Fleming.
