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2026 World Cup qualifiers: Inaki Williams could miss Mali, CAR games after undergoing foot surgery

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Ghanaian striker, Inaki Williams, is facing a potential setback as he undergoes foot surgery ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The 29-year-old player had to address discomfort from a troublesome scar on his left foot, which led to him undergoing a procedure at the IMQ Zorrotzaurre Clinic in Bilbao, as confirmed by his club, Athletic Bilbao.

Due to this surgery, Inaki will miss Athletic Club’s final match of the season against Rayo Vallecano. The duration of his absence post-surgery is uncertain, raising concerns about his availability for the crucial qualifiers next month.

Ghana’s national team is preparing for matches against Mali on June 6 and the Central African Republic on June 10. With Inaki’s potential absence, there is added uncertainty to the squad selection as coach Otto Addo is expected to announce the team in the coming days.

Sitting in 4th place in Group I with just three points, Ghana needs victories in these upcoming matches to boost their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

In the La Liga season, Inaki Williams has scored 12 goals in 34 appearances for Athletic Bilbao and was named the best African Player in the Spanish topflight. His absence will surely be felt by both club and country as they aim for success in their respective competitions.

Head of content and Editor-at-large at Ghanafuo.com – Dickson Ofori Siaw is a blunt writer who loves to make his readers see "the other perspectives of a news story". Follow me on Twitter @kwadwo_dost