Lalas Abubakar

Lalas Abubakar Bio

Alhassan “Lalas” Abubakar (born 25 December 1994) is a Ghanaian professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for Major League Soccer club FC Dallas. He began his career playing at the University of Ghana and later moved to the United States where he excelled at the University of Dayton. Abubakar has played for multiple teams in the MLS and has earned numerous accolades for his defensive skills, making significant contributions to his teams throughout his career.

Early Life and Background

Alhassan Abubakar was born in Kumasi, Ghana, and raised in the capital city, Accra. He attended the University of Ghana, where he participated in the university’s football team. In 2013, after a teammate was selected to join the Dayton Flyers program in the United States, Abubakar was also offered a spot on the team after a recommendation from his friend. Although he had several offers from European clubs, he chose to attend the University of Dayton in Ohio to play college soccer for the Flyers.

Path to Soccer

During his time with the Dayton Flyers from 2014 to 2016, Abubakar made a significant impact, appearing in 61 matches and scoring four goals while providing six assists. He played a key role in the Flyers’ success, helping them win the A-10 Championship in 2015 and reach the second round of the NCAA Tournament. His performance earned him the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2016, as well as a spot on the A10 Men’s Soccer All-Conference First Team.

Lalas Abubakar Career

Early Career (2015-2016)

Abubakar began his professional career in 2015 with the Charlotte Eagles in the Premier Development League, where he played during the college soccer offseason. The team had an undefeated season, and he was recognized as a finalist for the PDL’s Young Player of the Year award. In 2016, he joined the Michigan Bucks, contributing to their Premier Development League title victory and earning the PDL Defender of the Year award.

Breakthrough (2017-2019)

On 13 January 2017, Abubakar was drafted by Columbus Crew SC in the first round of the 2017 MLS SuperDraft, being the fifth overall pick. In his first season, he split time between Columbus and the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, making a total of 15 appearances. He scored his first professional goal on 19 August 2017 during a match against Orlando City. His performances in 2018 were inconsistent, leading to a loan to the Colorado Rapids in 2019.

Notable Works and Milestones

Following his loan, Abubakar was permanently traded to the Colorado Rapids on 20 November 2019. He made his debut for the Rapids on 29 February 2020 and quickly established himself as a key player, earning the Defender of the Year award in both 2020 and 2021. Abubakar’s contributions helped the Rapids make a playoff push, and he scored his first goal for the team on 9 September 2020.

Lalas Abubakar Award Nominations

Throughout his career, Alhassan Abubakar has received several nominations for his exceptional defensive performances, particularly during his time with the Colorado Rapids.

Lalas Abubakar Awards Won

Alhassan Abubakar has won multiple awards, including the Defensive Player of the Year and the PDL Defender of the Year in 2016. He has also been recognized as the Defender of the Year in both 2020 and 2021 for his outstanding contributions to his teams.

Lalas Abubakar Family

Information regarding Alhassan Abubakar’s family is not publicly available.

Personal Life

Details about Alhassan Abubakar’s personal life, including marital status or children, are not publicly disclosed.