Abu suffered a devastating broken leg just months before football's biggest stage.
The 24-year-old was on the verge of the biggest chapter of his young career, having forced his way into Ghana's plans for next year's global showpiece.
But in a heartbreaking twist, Abu's rising trajectory came to an abrupt halt during the Black Stars' 2-0 defeat to Japan in the Kirin Challenge Cup on Friday.
What should have been another opportunity to cement his place in Otto Addo's squad turned into a nightmare.
Abu collapsed in the second half following a heavy challenge and was stretchered off in visible pain, immediately raising fears of the worst. Those fears were confirmed after medical scans revealed a broken leg.
Toulouse delivered the gut-wrenching update on Saturday, announcing that the midfielder's season is over - and so is his World Cup campaign.
"Images we hate to see," the club said in a sombre statement. "Francis Abu suffered a terrible injury against Japan and will be sidelined for several months. He will, unfortunately, miss the 2026 World Cup in the United States."
For a player who has worked relentlessly to break into the Ghana national team setup, the timing could not be more cruel. Abu had been steadily growing into a vital midfield option, and the World Cup was expected to be his platform to announce himself to the world.
Instead, he now faces a long and difficult road to recovery, but Toulouse has expressed their full support.
"The entire club wishes you a speedy recovery, Abu. Stay strong and come back to us soon; we're all with you during this difficult time," the club added.
The midfielder has been released from Ghana's camp in Asia and is returning to France for treatment and rehabilitation.
For Ghana, the blow is significant. For Abu, it is devastating. A World Cup dream that felt within reach has been torn away - but his journey is far from over.
