NWSL: Angel City FC Midfielder Hina Sugita Sidelined for 2026 Season with ACL Injury
- Staff Writer
- Mar 19
- 2 min read
NATIONAL SOCCER NEWS: www.nationalsoccernetwork.com
LOS ANGELES — Angel City Football Club (ACFC) confirmed a major blow to its 2026 campaign today, announcing that midfielder Hina Sugita has sustained a season-ending injury to her left anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The Japanese international will be placed on the season-ending injury (SEI) list effectively immediately.
The injury is a significant setback for an Angel City side that had just begun to integrate the world-class playmaker into its tactical core. Sugita joined the Los Angeles-based club in September 2025 via a high-profile trade with the Portland Thorns, where she had spent four successful seasons.
"Hina is a world-class athlete and teammate," said ACFC Head Coach Alex Straus. "We are devastated for her, but know she will bring the same focus and determination to her rehab as she does on the pitch. The entire team and club are behind her. We are prepared to support her on her road to recovery and look forward to having her back."
A Major Loss for the Midfield
Sugita’s absence leaves a creative void in the heart of the Angel City midfield. After arriving late last year, she immediately earned a starting role, appearing in four matches and demonstrating the vision and technical proficiency that have made her a staple for the Japanese National Team.
With 51 international caps and experience in two FIFA Women’s World Cups (2019 and 2023), Sugita was expected to be a primary engine for ACFC’s transition play this season. Her injury will force Coach Straus to look toward the club's depth, potentially providing more minutes for younger prospects or shifting the roles of veteran midfielders like Brianna Pinto and Rocky Rodríguez.
Road to Recovery
The ACL recovery timeline typically spans nine to twelve months, meaning Sugita will focus entirely on rehabilitation with the goal of returning for the 2027 NWSL season.
Angel City fans and teammates have already begun sharing messages of support across social media, highlighting Sugita's impact on the locker room culture in her short time with the club. While the loss of a foundational player is difficult, the club’s medical staff has emphasized that they are fully equipped to guide her through the recovery process.
Hina Sugita Career Highlights:
International Caps: 51 (Japan)
World Cup Appearances: 2019, 2023
NWSL Tenure: Portland Thorns (2022–2025), Angel City FC (2025–Present)
Angel City continues its 2026 schedule this weekend, where the team is expected to honor Sugita during their pre-match ceremonies. Details regarding potential roster replacements or a move to the Discovery List have not yet been announced.
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