USWNT's Mal Swanson (knee) taken to hospital

Forward Mallory Swanson was carted off the field during the first half of the United States’ 2-0 win over Ireland on Saturday 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.

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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. USWNT coach Vlatko Andonovski was unable to provide any further update immediately following the game.

“The emotions run high, regardless of what kind of injury,” he told reporters. “Unfortunately, Mal had to leave the stadium. We don’t know the extent of the injury yet. She’s getting checked out as we speak. I’m hoping for good news in the near future.”

Teammate Rose Lavelle said Swanson’s spirits improved once she was carted off.

“We’re hoping for the best,” Lavelle said.

The U.S. won the game thanks to a first goal for her country for defender Emily Fox in the 37th minute and an 80th-minute penalty from midfielder Lindsey Horan.

The game was the first of two matches between the U.S. and Ireland. They are the last international matches before 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.

Information from ESPN’s Jeff Carlisle was used in this report.