Ivory Coast captain Didier Drogba injured early in warmup match against Japan

Drogba injured early in Ivory Coast-Japan friendly

SION, Switzerland — Captain Didier Drogba has been replaced after being injured 15 minutes into Ivory Coast’s friendly with Japan on Friday.

Drogba lay on the turf for two minutes after a high challenge by Japan defender Marcus Tulio Tanaka, who was shown a yellow card.

Drogba limped off the field apparently with pain in his groin and right hip.

Two minutes before the challenge, Ivory Coast took the lead when Drogba’s 24-yard free kick was deflected by Tulio into his own net.