LISBON, Portugal – Promising Benfica forward Diana Costa will undergo surgery and miss the remainder of the season after suffering a fractured fifth metatarsal in her left foot, the club announced Monday. The 19-year-old sustained the injury while on international duty with the Portugal Under-23 team in a recent match against Italy.
Costa, currently on loan to Racing Power, will be under the care of Benfica’s medical department throughout her recovery. The fracture is a significant setback for the young player, who has shown considerable potential in both club and international play. For context, a fractured fifth metatarsal is a common injury in football, often requiring several months of rehabilitation.
Benfica confirmed that Costa will be operated on to address the fracture, with no immediate timeline provided for her return to action. The club statement indicated that the recovery process will be closely monitored by their clinical staff.
The injury occurred during a preparatory match between Portugal and Italy’s Under-23 squads, effectively ending Costa’s season with Racing Power. She had been included in the UEFA Women’s Champions League squad list earlier this season, according to UEFA’s official website, highlighting her rising profile within the sport.
Prior to the injury, Costa had featured in 14 official matches – combining appearances for Benfica’s first team and reserve side – scoring seven goals in 803 minutes of play. Her goal-scoring record demonstrates her effectiveness in front of goal and her contribution to both teams. The forward’s absence will be keenly felt by Racing Power as they navigate the remainder of their campaign.
This injury comes as a blow to Portugal’s preparations as well. Costa has been a rising star in the national team setup, and her absence will undoubtedly impact coach’s plans. Portugal is currently preparing for upcoming international fixtures, and Costa’s injury throws a wrench into those plans.
The timing of the injury is particularly unfortunate for Costa, as she was gaining momentum and establishing herself as a key player for both club and country. The fifth metatarsal is located on the outside of the foot, and fractures in this area can be notoriously slow to heal, often requiring a period of immobilization followed by extensive rehabilitation.
Benfica’s medical team will now focus on ensuring Costa receives the best possible care and support during her recovery. The club has a strong reputation for its medical facilities and expertise, and Costa will benefit from their comprehensive approach to rehabilitation.
While the exact recovery timeline remains uncertain, it is expected that Costa will be sidelined for several months. Her focus will now be on regaining full fitness and returning to the pitch stronger than ever. Fans and teammates alike will be hoping for a swift and complete recovery for the talented young forward.
The club has not yet announced any specific plans for a replacement for Costa in the Racing Power squad, but they will likely explore options to fill the void left by her absence. The injury also raises questions about the potential impact on Benfica’s own squad depth, as they prepare for the remainder of the Liga Betclic season.
Costa’s situation underscores the inherent risks faced by footballers, even at the youth level. Injuries are an unfortunate part of the game, and players often have to overcome significant setbacks to achieve their full potential.
Benfica will continue to provide updates on Costa’s recovery progress as they become available. The club’s supporters will be eagerly awaiting news of her rehabilitation and hoping to see her back on the pitch as soon as possible.
The next confirmed action for Benfica’s women’s team is their upcoming league match against [Opponent TBD], scheduled for [Date TBD] at the [Venue TBD].
