Colombia held off a determined Ghana side to claim a hard-earned 1-0 victory and secure a place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A first-half strike from Jhon Arias proved decisive as the South Americans ended Ghana’s impressive World Cup campaign and set up a quarter-final showdown with Switzerland.
Colombia made a bright start to the encounter, with Luis Suárez forced off through injury as early as the eighth minute and replaced by Jhon Córdoba. Despite the setback, the South Americans quickly found their rhythm and took the lead in the 14th minute when Arias calmly finished after being set up by Córdoba.
Ghana responded positively and enjoyed spells of possession but struggled to break down a disciplined Colombian defence. The Black Stars made several attacking changes in the second half, introducing fresh legs in a bid to restore parity, but clear-cut chances remained scarce.
The physical contest saw both teams pick up several yellow cards, reflecting the intensity of the knockout encounter as Colombia defended their slender advantage.
Despite Ghana’s late pressure, Colombia remained composed at the back to preserve their clean sheet and seal a narrow victory.
The result sends Colombia into the quarter-finals, where they will face Switzerland, who advanced after defeating Algeria 2-0. For Ghana, the defeat brings an end to a spirited World Cup campaign, with the Black Stars leaving the tournament after battling fiercely against one of South America’s strongest sides.
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