Mary Fowler suffers ruptured ACL, sidelines Matildas' Asian Cup hopes

Mary Fowler, the 22-year-old Australian forward for Manchester City, has suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during the Women's FA Cup semifinals against Manchester United, effectively sidelining her for nearly a year. The injury occurred early in the match, forcing her off the field within 20 minutes and confirming fears of a serious setback for both her club and the Australian national team. Fowler has been in outstanding form, scoring 10 goals this season, and her absence poses a significant challenge for the Matildas as they prepare for the upcoming Women's Asian Cup. Despite the setback, Fowler expressed her commitment to recovery, stating she is ready to take on the rehabilitation process and remain positive about her future. Interim Matildas coach Tom Sermanni and her teammates are rallying around her during this challenging time, emphasizing her talent and dedication. Fowler's injury also compounds the Matildas' woes as they are still without star striker Sam Kerr, who is recovering from her own ACL injury.