Schmidt to play through pain Sunday

Sophie Schmidt sustained a hip injury last game, but is expected to play Sunday's round-of-16 knockout match against Switzerland.

Abbotsford's Sophie Schmidt

Abbotsford's Sophie Schmidt

By The Canadian Press

Sophie Schmidt is expected to play in Sunday’s round of 16 match against Switzerland at the women’s World Cup in Vancouver, but the influential midfielder from Abbotsford will likely be playing in pain.

Schmidt came off in the 81st minute of Canada’s 1-1 tie with the Netherlands on Monday after falling awkwardly while challenging for the ball.

Coach John Herdman said she has a painful bruise around the hip that has limited her mobility, but the Canadian bench boss expects Schmidt to play in the nation’s biggest game to this point.

The team also expects the return of veteran midfielder Diana Matheson, who is coming off knee surgery and a broken foot.

Herdman said Matheson suffered a minor setback prior to the Dutch game with a mild quad strain, but could be available for selection if she trains well.

The Canadians play at 4:30 p.m.

Watch abbynews.com for updates from the game.

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