World Cup 2026: Colombia completes the Round of 16 field with a 1-0 win over Ghana

KANSAS CITY — Colombia earned just its second knockout-round win in World Cup history with a 1-0 victory over Ghana on Friday night to conclude the Round of 32. Jhon Arias found himself wide open at the back post for a cross that he slotted home past Ghana’s Lawrence Ati-Zigi as the keeper dove the other way in the 14th minute. COLOMBIA TAKES THE LEAD IN KANSAS CITY 🇨🇴 Jhon Arias finds the scoresheet and the stadium is LOUD! pic.twitter.com/VoT7sJLxir — FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 4, 2026 The goal proved to be enough against a Ghana team that made it to the knockout rounds by playing an incredibly defensive style of soccer. Ghana scored twice in the group stage and shut out both Panama and England as it finished third in Group L. The low block employed by manager Carlos Queiroz can be incredibly effective — England was frustrated as it tried to break Ghana down in their 0-0 draw. However, the strategy can get blown up by an early goal. And Ghana simply wasn’t sharp enough in attack to find the equalizer on Friday night. Winger Antoine Semenyo was dangerous at times,, but there wasn’t much support. The few times when Ghana did throw a dangerous cross across the face of goal, there was no one nearby. Colombia was the more threatening team in the second half, even as Ghana tried to attack more. Luis Diaz had a fine sliding finish that briefly gave Colombia a 2-0 lead, but he was offside as the pass was sent his direction. Just minutes later, Diaz had another fine chance to officially add a second goal to Colombia’s lead, but his shot was saved by Ati-Zigi.