The 21-year-old Canadian international, who became the first £1 million player in women’s football following her move from Liverpool last summer, was taken to hospital for precautionary checks. Head coach Renee Slegers later expressed hope that the injury would not prove serious.
Smith was suspected to have suffered a concussion after the heavy collision, prompting a lengthy stoppage at the Mangata Developments Stadium. The delay resulted in 14 minutes of added time at the end of the match as medical staff treated the forward on the pitch before she was carried off.
The distressing scenes sparked an outpouring of support from fans on social media, with many sending messages of encouragement and wishing her a speedy recovery. Supporters noted that the young striker has endured an unfortunate run with injuries this season.
Smith’s campaign was previously disrupted by a hip problem sustained while on international duty in October, halting her momentum just as she was beginning to impress following her arrival at the Emirates Stadium.
Despite those setbacks, she remains one of Arsenal’s key attacking threats and is currently the club’s joint second-highest scorer in all competitions, with eight goals to her name.
Arsenal went on to secure a 3-0 win, with goals from Kim Little, Victoria Pelova and Frida Maanum — the latter having replaced Smith after the incident.
While progression in the Women’s FA Cup was assured, attention will now turn to the medical assessment of one of the club’s brightest talents, with Arsenal and their supporters anxiously awaiting further updates.