Japan’s Ao Tanaka showed commendable sportsmanship after Ghana midfielder Francis Abu suffered a serious ankle injury during Friday’s friendly in Aichi.
Abu was stretchered off early in the second half following an awkward twist, with initial signs suggesting he will be out of action for a lengthy period.
In the midst of the unease that followed the injury, Tanaka went straight to the Ghana bench to apologise to head coach Otto Addo after Abu was taken off, stressing the challenge was accidental. Addo accepted the gesture, praising the midfielder’s respect and sincerity.
Japan went on to win 2–0, but Tanaka’s act of humility stood out on a difficult evening for the Black Stars. Abu is awaiting further medical assessment.
By: Pascal Amoah
