Soccer

Uruguay’s Maximiliano Araújo stretchered off after nasty collision against USMNT

Uruguay star forward Maximiliano Araújo’s game against the United States men’s national team was abruptly cut short after a nasty collision in the box.

The 24-year-old Araújo, who has two goals and an assist already in the Copa America, collided with USMNT defender Timothy Ream and Uruguay teammate Ronald Araújo going for a header on a free kick around the near post around the 23rd minute of a scoreless pool play game on Monday night in Kanas City.

Uruguay's Maximiliano Araujo is carried off the pitch on a stretcher after getting injured during a Copa America Group C soccer match against United States in Kansas City on Monday.
Uruguay’s Maximiliano Araujo is carried off the pitch on a stretcher after getting injured during a Copa America Group C soccer match against United States in Kansas City on Monday. AP

All three men hit the pitch hard as Maximiliano Araujo could be seen grabbing near his throat.

Maximiliano Araújo was eventually stretchered off the field with his neck in a brace as both teams looked on. 

He received claps of support from his teammates and fans. 

Joe Scally, left, of the United States, and Uruguay's Maximiliano Araujo battle for the ball during a Copa America Group C soccer match, Monday, July 1, 2024,
Joe Scally, left, of the United States, and Uruguay’s Maximiliano Araujo battle for the ball during a Copa America Group C soccer match, Monday, July 1, 2024. AP

The first half ended scoreless. 

Uruguay won the game 1-0.