While Orlando City emerged victorious from Sunday’s match against New York City FC, it came at a steep price.

Star DP midfielder Kaka will reportedly miss up to six weeks with a grade 1-2 hamstring injury. Kaka was forced off the field early in Sunday’s match, just before Cyle Larin put the hosts up in a match they’d eventually win, 1-0. The Brazilian midfielder appeared to collide with several NYCFC players near the box and went down immediately clutching his hamstring before signaling for a substitution.

Head coach Jason Kreis explained that he didn’t hesitate to remove Kaka, stating that the hamstring issue appeared to possibly be “a very serious injury”.

“I’m disappointed for him, this was a big night for him and I think everyone could already see the energy he was putting into the game in those 11 minutes and I think this was going to be a special night for him,” Kreis said. “I’m deeply disappointed for him, but the team moved on and I think that’s a positive thing. We’ll find out tomorrow. “

While the news is unpleasant, it could be worse for the Lions, as they’ll only miss their playmaker for around five matches. A six week rehabilitation would potentially see Kaka available again for the team’s next match against NYCFC at Yankee Stadium on April 23, though match fitness will be a concern after the long layoff.