Leeds United’s Tanaka Ao has publicly expressed remorse after the tackle that left Ghana midfielder Francis Abu with a serious injury during the Kirin Challenge Cup clash in Nagoya on Friday.
Facing reporters after the match, the Japanese international didn’t shy away from the moment, openly regretting the incident.
“I’m sorry about today,” he said, a brief but heartfelt acknowledgment of the damage caused and the abrupt halt it brought to the game’s rhythm.
Toulouse confirm Francis Abu will miss 2026 World Cup after serious leg injury
Abu, who could not continue, was carried off on a stretcher before being taken to Toyota Memorial Hospital for assessment. According to the Ghana FA, he remains in stable condition. A coordinated medical effort involving doctors from Ghana, Toulouse, his club, and the host hospital has now been set in motion.
Coach Otto Addo later revealed that Tanaka approached both Abu and the Ghana technical bench to apologise in person, a gesture the Ghanaian coach described as genuine and commendable. Addo praised it as an act of respect and professionalism, especially in a moment overshadowed by real concern for a player’s wellbeing.
Wishing you a speedy recovery, Abu Francis 🇬🇭🙌 pic.twitter.com/G2yErvnJua
— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) November 14, 2025
Japan went on to seal a 2–0 victory, but the result felt secondary. The night’s defining moment wasn’t a goal, but the sight of Francis Abu leaving the pitch in distress, and a midfielder from the opposing side taking responsibility for his role in it.
