Ghana Midfielder Injury: Francis Abu Suffers Broken Leg Against Japan
Ghana midfielder injury overshadowed the Black Stars’ 2-0 defeat to Japan. The teams played the opening match of the 2025 Kirin Challenge Cup. The tournament took place at Toyota Stadium in Nagoya. Japan secured the victory with goals from Takumi Minamino and Kaoru Mitoma. However, the 50th-minute injury to Francis Abu dominated the conversation. Toulouse midfielder Abu suffered a broken leg after a challenge. Japan’s Ao Tanaka made the tackle. Consequently, the severe injury rules Abu out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Abu twisted his leg awkwardly before collapsing to the turf. Therefore, his teammates immediately called for urgent medical assistance. Abu was stretchered off the pitch moments later. He could not put any weight on the injured limb. Alidu Seidu replaced him on the field. Meanwhile, the atmosphere around the Ghana team remained sombre after the incident. Early reports confirmed the broken leg. Further tests will determine the exact recovery timeline. Furthermore, the loss was a difficult result for the Black Stars. Japan’s second goal completed a difficult evening.
Ghana coach Otto Addo described the Ghana midfielder injury as “really serious.” He made this known in a post-game interview. “I’m a bit shocked,” Addo stated plainly. Thus, he shared his heartfelt prayers for Abu. Addo acknowledged that injuries happen in football. Nevertheless, this incident was exceptionally severe. He had to force a tactical change. Caleb Yirenkyi partnered Kwasi Sibo in midfield. Seidu shifted into the right full-back position. Moreover, the team’s loss demonstrated the need for improvement. Addo believes Japan earned the win justly.
Tanaka apologized to Abu and Coach Addo for the unfortunate challenge. In addition, this action earned him praise for displaying sportsmanship. The games against Japan and South Korea serve as preparation. Ghana is currently preparing for upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Ultimately, the coach called for his team to improve its performance. He wants them to learn to escape the high press better. He asked them to hold the ball and win more second balls. Clearly, the serious Ghana midfielder injury presents a significant setback for the team’s preparations. The Black Stars must regroup before playing South Korea on Tuesday, November 18.
