Lalas Abubakar, FC Dallas Defender #5: Career, Stats & Impact

You spot Lalas Abubakar in the number 5 shirt for FC Dallas and instantly sense his calming effect on the back line. The Ghanaian defender, with his strength and sharp awareness, brings Dallas a real sense of stability when matches get hectic.

Honestly, you can rely on Abubakar to anchor the defense and offer leadership that comes from years of MLS experience.

Abubakar arrived at FC Dallas after a solid spell with the Colorado Rapids, where he picked up Defensive Player of the Year twice. Back at University of Dayton, he built his name on smart positioning and a physical approach.

His two-year deal with a club option says a lot about how much Dallas values his steady presence and know-how.

His journey—starting out in Kumasi, Ghana, and winding through MLS—shaped his style, his views on teamwork, and even his role in the community. Let’s dig into his impact at FC Dallas, his career path, and where he fits among those MLS veterans who still make waves both on and off the pitch.

Lalas Abubakar’s Role at FC Dallas

You get a player who brings structure, experience, and leadership to a young back line. His presence gives FC Dallas a center back who combines physicality with tactical smarts, helping to steady the club’s defense for the 2025 season.

Defensive Duties and Playing Style

You’ll notice Abubakar’s game isn’t about flashy moments—it’s about timing and precision. As a center back, he focuses on positioning, reading passing lanes, and winning those tough aerial duels.

He handles one-on-one battles with strength, and his discipline keeps the defensive line tight. He steps up to intercept passes or clear out danger before it turns into trouble.

At six feet tall, he uses his body to shield the ball and disrupt opposing forwards. His time with Columbus Crew and Colorado Rapids really shaped his patience in big moments.

Abubakar’s defensive stats tell the story:

Season	Club	Appearances	Goals	Tackles Won	Clearances
2024	Colorado Rapids	27	1	42	98
2025	FC Dallas	20*	1	31	75

*2025 stats through Matchday 28 (FC Dallas).

Squad Integration for the 2025 MLS Season

Abubakar’s arrival from Colorado Rapids really changed the look of the FC Dallas back line. He signed a two-year contract with a one-year club option in December 2024, joining a defense that needed some veteran presence (MLSSoccer.com).

His leadership helps younger defenders get used to the MLS pace. Manager Eric Quill appreciates his communication and composure, often pairing him with quicker partners to balance things out.

By midseason, Abubakar picked up his first Team of the Matchday award after scoring in a 2–0 win over Portland. That’s a clear sign his influence is growing.

Jersey Number and Position

You see Abubakar in the number 5 jersey, a classic pick for a central defender. It fits—he’s the anchor, directing traffic and keeping the shape when things get chaotic.

Playing centrally lets him use his strength and awareness to control the space in front of goal. He stays central, covering those tricky gaps between fullbacks and midfielders.

His time at the University of Dayton set him up for this. College taught him discipline and adaptability—traits that still define his play. For FC Dallas, that number 5 shirt now stands for reliability and calm at the back.

Career Journey and Previous Clubs

Abubakar’s path shows steady growth, no question. From college soccer in Ohio to years of consistency in MLS, he’s built a reputation for reliability, strength, and leadership in defense.

Every step along the way added something new, shaping him into the experienced defender FC Dallas relies on now.

Early Career and College Soccer

Abubakar’s disciplined defending first caught eyes at the University of Dayton after he moved from Ghana. Before college, he honed his game in Kumasi, then joined the Dayton Flyers and earned conference honors for his composure and consistency.

He studied civil engineering while anchoring the defense. His knack for winning aerial duels and organizing the back line drew MLS scouts’ attention.

In 2017, he entered the MLS SuperDraft—the big entry point for college players. His mix of athleticism and tactical sense made him a top prospect, and the Columbus Crew picked him fifth overall that year.

Columbus Crew Period

Abubakar adapted fast with the Columbus Crew. He spent three seasons there, learning to handle the speed and pressure of the pro game.

He even went on a short loan to the Pittsburgh Riverhounds for more match experience. Coaches trusted him to mark top forwards and clear danger on set pieces.

Career Stats with Columbus Crew

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2017–2019	31	1	0

That stretch gave him the foundation for the leadership role he’d take on later.

Colorado Rapids Achievements

After moving to the Colorado Rapids, Abubakar’s influence really grew. Over six seasons, he racked up 153 appearances, scored nine goals, and added three assists (FC Dallas’ official profile).

In 2022, he hit career highs—32 starts, 2,523 minutes, and 4 goals. His steady play earned him respect around MLS as a dependable center back.

He became a vocal leader in the locker room, guiding younger guys and keeping the defense organized. His Colorado years built his reputation for reliability and physical play—qualities that still define him today.

Transfer to FC Dallas and Contract Details

FC Dallas made a smart move to shore up its defense by signing Lalas Abubakar. The veteran brings MLS experience, leadership, and a track record of consistent play after several seasons with Colorado.

Signing and Free Agency Move

Abubakar joined FC Dallas as a free agent in December 2024 after Colorado declined his contract option. The club announced the signing from Frisco, Texas, locking him in before the 2025 preseason.

He played five seasons with the Rapids, making 153 appearances and scoring nine goals. His defensive work helped Colorado reach the MLS Cup playoffs and notch a third-place finish in the 2024 Leagues Cup.

Dallas gets a proven MLS defender with both club and international experience. Abubakar, born in Kumasi, Ghana, represented his country at the U-20 level before college soccer at Dayton, where he developed into a reliable center back.

FC Dallas officials said the signing fits their offseason focus on improving defensive stability. You’ll find more details on the FC Dallas website.

Contract Terms and Club Options

Abubakar signed a two-year contract with a one-year club option, keeping him in Dallas through 2026, with the chance to extend to 2027. The deal shows the club’s belief in his ability to anchor the defense while keeping roster options open.

The contract details, confirmed by MLSSoccer.com, fit FC Dallas’s strategy of balancing veteran presence with long-term planning. The team-controlled option helps with salary cap flexibility—pretty standard for MLS.

Here’s a quick look at Abubakar’s key info:

Detail	Information
Full Name	Alhassan “Lalas” Abubakar
Position	Defender (Center Back)
Date of Birth	December 25, 1994
Height / Weight	6’1” / 181 lbs
College	University of Dayton
Previous Club	Colorado Rapids
Contract Length	Two years + one-year club option
Current Club	FC Dallas

Abubakar fits both the competitive and strategic needs of FC Dallas as they gear up for 2025.

Performance and Statistics

Consistency really defines Lalas Abubakar’s career. His work with FC Dallas highlights his defensive awareness, steady passing, and leadership at the back.

The numbers back it up—he’s reliable across multiple seasons, which is exactly why teams trust him.

2025 Season Stats with FC Dallas

At 30, Abubakar still lines up as a central defender for FC Dallas in the 2025 MLS season. According to FootyStats, he’s played in 12 matches with 0 goals, focusing on keeping things locked down at the back.

You notice his knack for reading the game, making clean tackles, and keeping the defense organized. His average match rating on Sofascore sits around 6.8—solid, even under pressure.

2025 Season Snapshot

Statistic	Total
Matches Played	12
Goals	0
Assists	0
Average Rating	6.8
Height	1.85 m
Preferred Foot	Right

Abubakar’s presence brings structure to the Dallas back line. His positional sense and aerial ability often shut down threats before they turn dangerous.

Career Milestones and Defensive Records

Abubakar’s journey from the University of Dayton to MLS shows discipline and resilience. Before joining Dallas in December 2024, he spent six seasons with Colorado Rapids, earning a reputation for steady defensive play.

He’s logged over 150 MLS appearances—proof of his durability and experience. On Transfermarkt, his 2025 market value sits near €500,000, which feels fair for a reliable veteran defender.

Career Highlights

• Over 150 MLS appearances
• Joined FC Dallas in 2024 on a two-year contract
• Known for strong aerial clearances and one-on-one defending
• Regular starter since his rookie season in 2017

His steady form across clubs defines his reputation more than any flashy stat ever could.

Awards and Recognitions

Abubakar picked up the Colorado Rapids Defensive Player of the Year award in earlier seasons. That speaks to his steady play and leadership on the back line.

Now at FC Dallas, he keeps playing a big role. He guides younger defenders and stays calm when the pressure’s on.

His professional recognition goes beyond trophies. Check out the video highlights on FC Dallas’s official site—you’ll spot his composure in tight spaces and how quickly he recovers after tough challenges.

He’s not the guy scoring goals, but you can’t miss how much his defending shapes the game. Reliability and a focus on the basics have quietly made him one of the league’s underrated success stories.

International Experience and Background

Lalas Abubakar’s path shows both his Ghanaian roots and his American journey. His story ties together his early football education in Kumasi, youth appearances for Ghana, and the move to the U.S. that shaped who he is today.

Ghanaian Heritage and Early Life in Kumasi

Abubakar was born on December 25, 1994, in Kumasi, Ghana—a city with a strong football culture. He grew up in a modest neighborhood, where he learned discipline and resilience early on.

He played in local youth leagues, and coaches noticed his strength and timing as a defender. Those early games set the stage for his professional career.

His family pushed him to value education as much as sport. Abubakar attended the University of Ghana, balancing academics and football before earning a shot to continue both abroad.

Attribute	Detail
Birthplace	Kumasi, Ghana
Birthdate	December 25, 1994
Early Club	Local youth teams in Kumasi
University	University of Ghana

Youth and U-20 National Team Experience

Before leaving Ghana, Abubakar represented his country at the U-20 level. That was a big step for his development.

Playing with Ghana’s youth national team meant faster games and more tactical demands. He trained alongside teammates who moved on to clubs in Africa and Europe, which helped him sharpen his defensive positioning and leadership.

He hasn’t played for the Ghana senior national team yet, but his performances in Major League Soccer keep him on the radar. He still hopes for a future call-up to the Black Stars.

Team Level	Years Active	Role	Notable Achievement
Ghana U-20	Early 2010s	Central Defender	Youth international appearances

Move to the United States and Dual Citizenship

Abubakar’s journey took him from Ghana to the University of Dayton in Ohio, thanks to a scholarship and a teammate’s recommendation. That move changed everything, giving him access to better training and more exposure.

At Dayton, he stood out as a defender for the Dayton Flyers, juggling college classes and NCAA matches. His strong play led the Columbus Crew to pick him in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft.

Now he’s built a life and career in the United States. He’s still proudly Ghanaian, but he’s got deep ties to his adopted home too—a dual identity that’s pretty common for today’s pro athletes.

Year	Event	Location
2014	Scholarship to University of Dayton	Dayton, Ohio, United States
2017	Drafted 5th overall by Columbus Crew	MLS SuperDraft
2024	Joined FC Dallas	Frisco, Texas

For a closer look at his journey, check out From Ghana to MLS: The journey of defender Lalas Abubakar.

Teammates, Community, and Fan Engagement

A defender’s influence definitely goes beyond the field. Lalas Abubakar’s relationships with teammates, his steady presence in the community, and his growing profile show how he connects both inside the locker room and with FC Dallas fans.

Key Defensive Partners at FC Dallas

You can see the chemistry between Abubakar, Sebastien Ibeagha, and Marco Farfan—they anchor FC Dallas’s defense. Their understanding comes from experience and good communication. Ibeagha’s aerial strength and Farfan’s pace on the left work well with Abubakar’s physical, positionally sharp style.

Abubakar brought leadership and structure when he joined from the Colorado Rapids. He played six seasons in Colorado, making 153 appearances and scoring nine goals. His history with Keegan Rosenberry, a former Rapids teammate, helped him settle in with Dallas.

Since he arrived, the team’s defensive numbers have improved in close matches. When Abubakar starts, the team usually allows fewer shots on target. He marks strikers tightly and directs younger defenders, bringing order to the back line.

Player	Primary Role	Strength	2025 Appearances*	Goals
Lalas Abubakar	Center Back	Positioning, Tackling	20	1
Sebastien Ibeagha	Center Back	Aerial Duels	22	0
Marco Farfan	Left Back	Pace, Crossing	23	0

*Approximate 2025 season totals

Community Involvement and Fan Support

Abubakar gets involved in local outreach, showing up at youth soccer clinics and community events around Frisco. His approachable style makes him a hit with young fans. He often says that community energy fuels the team’s spirit.

Through FC Dallas programs, he helps promote soccer in North Texas schools. Fans appreciate his consistency and humility—traits that reflect his Ghanaian upbringing.

He also goes to charity events organized by the club, building trust and loyalty that last beyond game days.

Media Presence and Public Profile

Abubakar handles media duties with a calm presence. Interviews with Big D Soccer and World Soccer Talk show his straightforward style. He talks honestly about team goals and personal development instead of making big claims.

His social media sticks to team moments, training updates, and community events. He rarely promotes himself, which fits his reputation as a disciplined, team-first player.

After playing at the University of Dayton, he gets how visibility matters. By keeping things low-key and honest, he sets a good example for younger teammates learning to balance performance with public attention.

MLS Competitions and Playoff Experience

Lalas Abubakar’s steady play and leadership show up in the postseason. His Major League Soccer record points to a defender who steps up in big matches and knows how to handle playoff pressure.

MLS Cup Playoffs Participation

You’ve probably seen Abubakar in the MLS Cup Playoffs—he brings calm and control. Playing for both the Colorado Rapids and FC Dallas has given him a real sense of what it takes to get through knockout rounds.

In Colorado, he started playoff matches against strong attacking teams. He won aerial duels and organized the back line, which made a big difference in the Rapids’ defense. He avoids costly fouls, so the team keeps its shape even when things get tense.

When he joined FC Dallas, the club got a veteran who already understood the rhythm of postseason soccer. Coaches appreciate his composure and clear communication, especially when younger defenders need guidance.

Playoff Snapshot

Season	Club	Matches Played	Minutes	Goals	Assists
2020	Colorado Rapids	2	180	0	0
2021	Colorado Rapids	1	90	0	0
2024	Colorado Rapids	3	270	0	0

His playoff record is more about consistency than flash. You can count on him to anchor the defense and keep transitions clean.

Leagues Cup and Other Tournaments

You’ve probably watched Abubakar play outside the regular Major League Soccer schedule—he’s jumped into the Leagues Cup and U.S. Open Cup too. These tournaments really force players to adapt, and honestly, he’s handled all sorts of international and domestic opponents with steady confidence.

In the 2024 Leagues Cup, Abubakar helped Colorado grab a third-place finish. That’s the club’s best showing in the tournament so far.

He made a real impact with his defensive positioning and those clearances when the pressure ramped up, especially in both the group and knockout stages.

Now with FC Dallas, fans expect him to bring that same calm presence to future tournaments.

He’s already faced plenty of Liga MX teams, so he’s picked up a tactical edge—he reads those quick counterattacks better than most.

If you want more stats, check out MLSsoccer.com’s player page. You’ll see a guy who approaches every match with the same focus and professionalism he showed back at the University of Dayton.