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Smith Concussion Sidelines Arsenal Star from Canada Squad

ESPN Soccer •
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Arsenal forward Olivia Smith has withdrawn from Canada's SheBelieves Cup squad after suffering a concussion during Sunday's FA Cup match against Bristol City. The 22-year-old was stretchered off after taking a ball to the face but was released from hospital later that day.

Smith's absence comes as a blow to Canada's preparations for the tournament, which begins March 1 against the United States. The Women's Super League club confirmed she will remain under their medical supervision during her recovery, with Megan Reid of the NWSL's Denver Summit called up as her replacement.

The concussion occurred during Arsenal's 3-0 victory, forcing Smith to miss what would have been her first major international tournament since joining the Gunners. Canada faces a challenging group including Colombia and Argentina, making Smith's experience particularly valuable for the team's campaign.