Ghana’s Black Stars have the opportunity to book a place in the Round of 32 when they face Croatia in their final Group L fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Saturday, June 27, at Philadelphia Stadium.
Carlos Queiroz’s side heads into the decisive encounter with four points from two matches and needs at least a draw to secure qualification to the knockout stage after an unbeaten start to the tournament.
The Black Stars sit second in the group behind England on goal difference and could even finish as group winners with a victory, provided England fail to beat Panama in the other Group L fixture.
Although Ghana could still qualify as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams in the event of a defeat, the four-time African champions will be eager to avoid relying on other results and seal progression on their own terms.
A place in the knockout rounds would mark Ghana’s first appearance beyond the group stage since reaching the quarterfinals of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
The Black Stars arrived in Philadelphia on Thursday evening ahead of the crucial encounter.
Goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi remains a fitness concern after suffering a muscle injury in Ghana’s opening match against Panama. Benjamin Asare, who impressed with three important saves in the 1-1 draw against England, is expected to continue in goal.
Captain Jordan Ayew is likely to lead the attack once again despite mounting competition from Prince Kwabena Adu, who nearly scored a dramatic winner against England.
Croatia enter the contest under greater pressure, needing all three points to guarantee progression to the Round of 32.
Head coach Zlatko Dalic has a fully fit squad available and could hand striker Ante Budimir a starting berth after his match-winning substitute appearance against Panama. Defender Josko Gvardiol is also expected to retain his place despite being substituted at halftime in Croatia’s previous match.
Saturday’s encounter will be the first-ever senior international meeting between Ghana and Croatia.
Kick-off is scheduled for 2100 GMT.
