:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46469812/RAFINHA_1.0.0.png)
Brazilian blog Lance!Net reports that Erika is out with a knee injury and Boston Breakers midfielder Rafinha has been called up to replace her.
Americans may remember Erika as the player who miraculously returned to life in the 2011 World Cup quarterfinal after some shenanigans in the box, which ironically ended up giving the United States enough stoppage time to score an equalizer.
Rafinha has been the Breakers' starting #10 for most of the season now. Coach Durkin was very up on her as a player, indicating that though she wasn't ready to play a full 90 at NWSL speed yet, she was certainly getting there. Her progress was visible as she went from playing a half at a time to going 70+ minutes before being subbed.
The Breakers have already played a game without Rafinha, a 1-0 victory over FCKC. Durkin used midfielder Maddy Evans to hold the center and at times she sparked with Kristie Mewis and Stephanie McCaffrey. Durkin's other options are Suzane Pires and Stephanie Verdoia, both used as late subs so far. Chanel Johnson may also see some time now, as Durkin has been impressed with her in training.
Bia, who was also called away to camp, should be returning to the team today and could travel for their upcoming match against the Washington Spirit.