Japan midfielder Ao Tanaka apologises for causing Francis Abu’s injury in Ghana friendly

Japan midfielder Ao Tanaka showed a commendable act of sportsmanship during Friday’s international friendly against Ghana after his challenge led to a serious injury to midfielder Francis Abu.

The incident occurred in the second half of the 2025 Kirin Challenge Cup clash, where Abu suffered a broken leg in the 56th minute and had to be replaced by defender Alidu Seidu.

📽 A scary and heartbreaking injury for #Ghana winger Francis Abu in the friendly against #Japan. 😳 😭💔 🇬🇭 #BlackStars #WorldCup2026 pic.twitter.com/NsQcHo8lsC

— Ibrahim Sannie Daara (@SannieDaara) November 14, 2025

The injury, which could keep the young midfielder out for the rest of the 2025/26 season, left many Ghanaian fans deeply concerned, especially with the Black Stars lacking depth in midfield ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Moments after Tanaka was substituted, he went directly to Ghana head coach Otto Addo to apologise for his role in the unfortunate incident. His gesture was widely praised as a demonstration of respect and fair play in an otherwise competitive contest.

As Abu begins his recovery, uncertainty remains over whether he will regain fitness in time to make Ghana’s squad for next year’s World Cup.

The Black Stars camp and fans continue to hope for a swift and complete recovery for the young midfielder.