SAO PAULO (AP) – Jozy Altidore will miss the Americans’ World Cup game against Portugal on Sunday because of his strained left hamstring and appears likely to sit out next week’s match against Germany.
The U.S. probably needs to advance to the knockout phase if the forward is to return to the tournament.
Altidore was hurt in the 21st minute of Monday’s 2-1 win over Ghana, and the U.S. Soccer Federation said Thursday he will not play against the Portuguese.
“He’s a big player for us,” midfielder Kyle Beckerman said. “We’re extremely bummed for him and for the team, but we bring 23 players, and it’s just a chance for somebody to step up. Hopefully the injury’s not too bad and we can see Jozy later in the tournament.”
U.S. team spokesman Michael Kammarman did not reveal the severity of the strain. The Americans have just three days off between this weekend’s game in Manaus and their first-round finale in Recife on June 26.