Match ends, Japan 2, Ghana 0.
The two goal scorers for Japan were,
Full-Time at the Toyota Stadium in Japan. A good test for the #BlackStars to assess and build on.
Midfielder Francis Abu suffered a nasty injury during Ghana’s international friendly against Japan, leaving the match under distressing circumstances.
The Toulouse player twisted his ankle badly in the early in the second half, and the reaction from his teammates showed how serious the situation was. Several players looked visibly shaken as Abu went down, signalling immediately for medical support.
The 24-year-old was unable to continue and had to be stretchered off the pitch, bringing a sudden halt to the game’s rhythm. His injury added to Ghana’s troubles on the night, as the Black Stars were trailing 1-0 at the time.
Early indications suggest that Abu could be out for an extended period, though further assessment will be required to determine the full extent of the damage. His absence would be a major blow for both club and country, especially given his strong form in recent months.
More updates are expected as medical examinations continue.
Antoine Semenyo captained Ghana for the first time when the Black Stars faced Japan in the Kirin Challenge Cup on Friday in Aichi.
The Bournemouth forward takes the armband in the absence of Jordan Ayew, Thomas Partey, Alexander Djiku, and Mohammed Kudus, marking a new step in his international career.
Semenyo has been part of the national team since 2022 and has earned more than thirty caps. Born in England, he chose to represent Ghana and has become a regular in the squad through his work rate and commitment. His leadership role reflects the confidence the technical team has in him and the influence he brings to the attacking line.
The match was played at the Toyota Stadium at 7:20 local time, 10:20 am in Ghana. Ghana will field a young team, giving Semenyo the chance to guide several emerging players on the pitch.
This captaincy debut is a significant moment for the 25-year-old, who has grown into one of the dependable figures in the side. Leading Ghana against Japan allows him to show his maturity and steady presence in a competitive international fixture.
