Ghana’s World Cup qualifying campaign has suffered a major setback as star striker Inaki Williams faces a spell on the sidelines after sustaining an injury.

The Athletic Club forward picked up the knock during his side’s 2-1 La Liga win over RCD Mallorca on Saturday at the San Mamés Stadium. Williams had just broken his goal drought with a composed finish before being substituted in the 53rd minute and replaced by his brother, Nico Williams.

Initially named in Otto Addo’s 24-man squad for Ghana’s decisive clashes against the Central African Republic and Comoros, his injury now casts doubt on his availability for the national team.

Speaking after the game, Athletic Club manager Ernesto Valverde confirmed the incident but admitted uncertainty about the striker’s fitness for international duty.

“I don’t know, but I imagine he [Inaki Williams] won’t go. I’m not sure if further tests are needed or what the protocol is, but things are as they are,” Valverde told reporters.

The Black Stars are scheduled to open camp in Casablanca on Sunday, October 5, as preparations intensify for their crucial World Cup qualifiers. They face the Central African Republic on October 8 at the Stade d’Honneur de Meknès, before hosting Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium on October 12.

Ghana must secure at least four points from these two games to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which would mark their fifth appearance at the global tournament.