Strasbourg's Panichelli Tears ACL in Argentina Training

Joaquin Panichelli, the 23-year-old striker leading the Ligue 1 scoring charts for RC Strasbourg, suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during a training session with the Argentina national team in Buenos Aires on Thursday, sidelining him for at least six months and jeopardizing his participation in the 2026 World Cup.

The injury occurred ahead of Argentina's friendly match against Mauritania scheduled for Friday, marking a sudden end to Panichelli's impressive season. Medical tests confirmed the rupture on Friday, prompting the Argentine Football Association to announce the diagnosis via social media. "Joaquin Panichelli suffered a trauma to his right knee today and will be evaluated tomorrow with additional tests," the association posted initially, followed by a supportive message: "Stay strong, Joaco! We're with you." Panichelli, who joined Strasbourg this season, has netted 16 goals in Ligue 1, contributing significantly to the team's push toward European qualification and their run to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Europa Conference League. He also scored seven goals in his last nine appearances across all competitions.