Colombia Outclass Ghana to Reach Knockouts

Colombia strengthened their reputation as one of the dark horses of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after a disciplined 1-0 victory over Ghana in the Round of 32 at Kansas City Stadium.

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Having topped Group K ahead of Portugal, Nestor Lorenzo's side produced another composed display to secure a place in the last 16. The only goal of the match came in the first half when Jhon Arias calmly converted Luis Suarez's precise cross into the bottom corner.

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Ghana made an energetic start, with Thomas Partey testing the Colombian defence early with a powerful long-range effort. However, Colombia gradually took control and created several clear chances before halftime. Luis Diaz narrowly missed the target, while Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi produced an outstanding save to deny Johan Mojica.

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Diaz thought he had doubled Colombia's advantage in the second half, but his effort was ruled out for a marginal offside after a VAR review. The Liverpool winger continued to threaten but was repeatedly denied by Ati-Zigi.

Despite Ghana pushing for an equaliser, Colombia's well-organised defence ensured the Black Stars failed to register a single shot on target throughout the match.

With the victory, Colombia advance to the Round of 16, where they will face Switzerland in Vancouver on 7 July for a place in the quarter-finals.

Your votes are in – Luis Díaz is the @MichelobUltra Superior Player of the Match! ⚽

#FIFAWorldCup #SuperiorPOTM pic.twitter.com/azSveEv21b

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 4, 2026

Player of the Match: Luis Diaz (Colombia)