York United FC midfielder Elijah Adekugbe (8) clears a ball with Vancouver Whitecaps defender Ali Ahmed (22) defending in the first half of Canadian Championship quarterfinal soccer action in Toronto on Wednesday, May 10, 2023. Vancouver Whitecaps player Ali Ahmed left the Canadian Championship semifinal against Pacific FC on a stretcher in the first half.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Cole Burston
LANGFORD, B.C. – Vancouver Whitecaps player Ali Ahmed left the Canadian Championship semifinal against Pacific FC on a stretcher in the first half.
The Whitecaps posted to social media that Ahmed was conscious and is receiving treatment at a local hospital.
Ahmed had scored a volleyed goal beforehand and was tackled shortly after the restart.
The left wingback was upended by Cedric Toussaint in a clean tackle and did not move at first.
Medical officials as well as a stretcher and vehicle were brought on to the field to transport him off.
Some of the Vancouver players looked shocked by the injury, with midfielder – and opening goal scorer – Julian Gressel appearing to be on the verge of tears.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 24, 2023.
