The tackle was horrific. Je-Vaughn Watson’s flying boot met Tim Cahill’s midsection (“just above the groin”), and the Australian star buckled onto the turf in pain. How he was able to return after the offense, one that earned Watson a red card, was surprising to say the least.
The bad news is that Cahill is in a lot of pain, but that’s a minor hiccup upon considering the New York Red Bulls midfielder looked in much worse shape.
Would his World Cup be in jeopardy? His MLS season?
Fortunately, nope. From The Herald Sun:Cahill, 34, revealed he was almost subbed at the break such was the concern from the Red Bulls’ medical staff in what was his first start since returning from a hamstring strain.
But after a light session today he was confident of backing up for Sunday’s home clash with Chicago Fire.
“I’m ok, it was a bit touch and go and I had to come off after about 60 minutes, when it happened it scared me because it hit me on the pubis,’’ Cahill said.
“It was a karate kick, I get those challenges once or twice a year.”
It’s just bruising and scratches for Cahill, and Watson could be facing much more than that. It was a brutal move that almost looked intentional, but at-best was wildly out-of-control play. But Socceroos can breathe easier today. In a group with the Netherlands, Chile and Spain, they’ll need every bit of good fortune moving forward.