As Ghana gears up for their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers, they have been dealt a setback with the injury of defender Abdul Mumin.

The 26-year-old, who has been a defensive rock for Rayo Vallecano this season, suffered an injury during his side’s 1-1 draw against Sevilla in La Liga on Saturday, March 1. Mumin started the game strongly, making key defensive contributions, including a goal-line clearance, an interception, and a crucial block. However, his night was cut short in the 35th minute when he was forced off and replaced by Aridane Hernández. The extent of his injury remains unknown.

This injury comes at a crucial time, with Ghana set to take on Chad on March 21 at the Accra Sports Stadium before facing Madagascar in Morocco on March 24. The latter fixture was relocated after CAF deemed Madagascar’s home stadium unfit for the qualifier.

Despite being in and out of the Black Stars squad, Mumin has been one of La Liga’s standout defenders for the second consecutive season, featuring in 24 matches while contributing two goals and an assist. His absence could pose a challenge for Ghana as they push forward in their World Cup qualification campaign.