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Onana Ruptures ACL, Out of Belgium’s Q’final Fixture against Spain

From ThisDay · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana has ruptured his ACL while playing for Belgium at the World Cup.
  • The 24-year-old was substituted 21 minutes into Belgium's last-16 match against the United States.
  • He is expected to be sidelined for six to nine months, but will remain with the squad for their quarter-final.

Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana suffered a devastating blow to his World Cup campaign, rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee. The 24-year-old sustained the injury 21 minutes into Belgium's commanding 4-1 victory over the United States in the last 16.

Unfortunately, the medical examinations have confirmed that Amadou has suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament.

— Brahim HaceneBelgium team doctor Brahim Hacene confirming the injury.

Onana went down clutching his knee after a challenge for the ball. Though he attempted to continue, he was later seen on crutches with a knee brace, confirming the severity of the injury. Belgium team doctor Brahim Hacene described the outcome as "devastating news."

"Unfortunately, the medical examinations have confirmed that Amadou has suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament," Hacene stated. "We immediately consulted with Amadou and with Aston Villa to agree on the best approach to his recovery. Over the coming days, we will jointly determine the next steps in his medical treatment and rehabilitation. We will continue to provide Amadou with our full support."

We immediately consulted with Amadou and with Aston Villa to agree on the best approach to his recovery.

— Brahim HaceneBelgium team doctor Brahim Hacene discussing the next steps for Onana's treatment.

Despite the injury, Belgium has confirmed Onana will remain with the squad as they prepare for their quarter-final clash against Spain. ACL injuries typically sideline players for six to nine months, casting a shadow over his club season with Aston Villa.

We will continue to provide Amadou with our full support.

— Brahim HaceneBelgium team doctor Brahim Hacene assuring support for the injured player.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ThisDay. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.