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The NWSL Injury & Return Update heading into Matchweek 18 shows just how quickly injuries can reshape a season. With several teams missing key soccer players, clubs are relying on depth as the 2026 regular season enters its final stretch. San Diego Wave FC stands out, with seven players listed as out, including several important contributors.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n San Diego has one of the longest injury lists in the league. Trinity Armstrong, Gia Corley, Dudinha, Kenza Dali, Didi Haracic, Catarina Macario and Kiki Pickett are all listed as out.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Macario, Dudinha and Armstrong are among the players dealing with season-ending injuries. Macario is listed with a heel injury, while Dudinha and Armstrong are dealing with knee injuries. Pickett is also out with an ankle injury.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Despite the absences, San Diego continues to compete near the top of the NWSL standings. The team entered Matchweek 18 after a 4-2 win against Utah on Aug. 21. San Diego\u2019s ability to collect points while missing several key players makes its depth especially important.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The Wave also have one player listed as questionable. Kimmi Ascanio is dealing with a thigh injury and could provide another boost if she is cleared to return.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n San Diego is not the only club dealing with major injuries. Several teams have players who have missed significant portions of the season.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Utah Royals forward Alex Loera and Kansas City Current defender Alana Cook are among the longest-tenured absences. Both have been sidelined with ACL injuries. Kansas City\u2019s Clare Gagne and Portland\u2019s Julie Dufour have also missed extended time.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Chicago Stars FC has also been hit hard. Jordyn Huitema and Natalia Kuikka are both listed with season-ending knee injuries, while Ryan Connaughton and Emma Egizii are also unavailable.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The Houston Dash are without Makenzy Robbe, while Racing Louisville is missing Natalie Mitchell and Marisa DiGrande. Seattle Reign is also without Jess Fishlock and Sam Meza.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n For injured players, the biggest question is not simply how many games they have missed. It is when they can safely return.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The NWSL availability report identifies who is currently out or questionable, while injury trackers provide additional context on the length of absences. However, a player appearing on an injury tracker does not necessarily mean there is a confirmed return date.<\/span><\/p>\n Injuries are another storyline worth watching alongside the standings and Golden Boot race. The return of even one star can change a team\u2019s momentum.<\/p>\n Featured image via @jordynhuitema<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n <\/div>\nSan Diego Faces Major Injury Challenges<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n
Long-Term Absences Across the League<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n
The Return Question<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/span>That makes the next few weeks especially important. With Decision Day scheduled for Nov. 1, every available player could make a difference in the playoff race.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n_<\/h4>\n
GIRLS SOCCER NETWORK: YOUR SOURCE FOR GIRLS SOCCER NEWS<\/h4>\n