It was supposed to be just another friendly match — but for Ghanaian midfielder Abu Francis, it turned into a nightmare that could end his World Cup dream.
The 24-year-old Toulouse player went in to block a shot from Japan’s Ao Tanaka during Friday’s international friendly, and what happened next left fans — and even rival players — horrified.
As Francis made contact, his leg twisted backwards in a gruesome moment caught on live TV. He immediately screamed in pain and collapsed on the turf, clutching his leg and calling for help as teammates and medics rushed to his side.
Players from both teams waved frantically for medical staff, and the match was halted as Francis received emergency treatment before being stretchered off to Toyota Memorial Hospital.
Witnesses described the injury as “one of the most horrific in world football history.”
One of the most horrific injuries in World football history, get well soon, Abu Francis.
— Olawale Ayeni (@VjWale) November 14, 2025
😢🙏🏾
pic.twitter.com/vwHvevs5lh
The Ghana Football Association confirmed that Francis is now in stable condition, adding that a “suitable treatment plan” has been agreed upon between Ghana’s and Toulouse’s medical teams.
In a statement, they thanked fans for their “outpouring of solidarity” and said updates on surgery and recovery will follow soon.
Japan’s coach Hajime Moriyasu also expressed sympathy after the match, saying, “I hope that Francis will be able to play football again as soon as possible. It was not intentional. We all feel for him.”
Tanaka, visibly shaken, personally approached the Ghana bench to apologize for the collision — though no one blamed him.
It was a particularly cruel twist for Francis, who was playing his first match for Ghana in six months and had been expected to join the squad at the 2026 World Cup.
Ghana’s coach Otto Addo called the moment “really, really bad,” saying, “I’m just praying it’s not as serious as it looks.”
Toulouse FC posted their support online, writing: “The images are terrible… We’re sending all our thoughts and strength to you, Francis. The whole club will be by your side to overcome this ordeal.”
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