USA's Mallory Swanson taken to hospital with knee injury

Forward Mallory Swanson was carted off the field during the first half of the United States' exhibition match Saturday against Ireland with an apparent left knee injury, a blow to the national team ahead of this summer's Women's World Cup.

Swanson was the team's leading scorer this year with seven total goals and a six-game scoring streak, tied for fourth-longest in team history.

— Women's World Cup bracket and fixtures schedule

She was hurt in the 40th minute of the game at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, after contact with Ireland's Aoife Mannion. Swanson cried out in pain as her teammates signaled to the sidelines for the training staff.

U.S. Soccer said Swanson was taken to a hospital. There were no further details available.

The game was the first of two matches between the U.S. and Ireland. They are the last international matches before U.S. coach Vlatko Andonovski will name a roster for the World Cup. The second match is set for Tuesday in St. Louis.

The U.S. is the two-time defending World Cup champion.

Swanson, 24, plays for the Chicago Red Stars in the National Women's Soccer League. Formerly known by her maiden name, Pugh, Swanson married Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson in December.