Benfica hold breathe on Sudakov injury

Benfica attacking midfielder Georgiy Sudakov limped off in tears while in action for Ukraine with an apparent ankle injury. Benfica is now sweating over the seriousness of the injury with the player to undergo medical tests.

The 24-year-old midfielder was forced off in the 68th minute of Ukraine’s 3-0 Nations League defeat against Northern Ireland. The incident occurred following a heavy touchline challenge from defender Brodie Spencer. Sudakov attempted to play through the pain but ultimately left the pitch in visible distress.

 

Fears of a Serious Layoff

While an official diagnosis is pending, team-mate Eduard Sarapiy revealed that Sudakov himself fears the injury could be serious. Sudakov seemed to trap his right foot on the play, pointing toward a possible ankle sprain that could sideline him for several weeks. 

The midfielder has officially left the Ukraine camp to return to Portugal, with the timing of the injury incredibly awkward for Benfica manager Marco Silva who faces a tactical headache if further tests confirm an extended absence for Sudakov.