BREAKING NEWS: Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi ruled out of England clash with groin injury

BREAKING NEWS: Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi ruled out of England clash with groin injury

Ghana have suffered a major setback ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Group L encounter against England after first-choice goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi was officially ruled out through injury.

The 29-year-old shot-stopper sustained a groin injury during the Black Stars’ dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening match of the tournament.

Ati-Zigi was hurt in the first half after a heavy collision with a Panama attacker while rushing off his line to make a vital save.

Despite receiving treatment and attempting to continue, the goalkeeper was visibly struggling and was eventually replaced at halftime by Benjamin Asare.

Initial concerns over the severity of the injury have now been confirmed following medical examinations, with Ati-Zigi expected to spend approximately three weeks on the sidelines.

His absence comes as a significant blow to head coach Carlos Queiroz and the Black Stars, especially with England next on the schedule.

Ati-Zigi played a key role before his withdrawal against Panama, producing an important early save to keep Ghana in the contest before Caleb Yirenkyi’s dramatic stoppage-time winner secured all three points.

The injury means Ati-Zigi will miss not only Tuesday’s showdown against England in Boston but could also be unavailable for the remainder of the group stage depending on Ghana’s progress.

There is, however, confidence within the Ghana camp after Benjamin Asare’s assured performance from the bench.

The goalkeeper helped preserve Ghana’s clean sheet against Panama and is now expected to make his first-ever FIFA World Cup start against the Three Lions.

With England entering the contest on the back of a 4-2 win over Croatia, Ghana face a stern challenge.

The Black Stars will now hope Asare can rise to the occasion as they seek a positive result that could move them closer to qualification for the knockout stages.

Ati Zigi’s injury adds to Ghana’s growing concerns, with the team already missing influential midfielder Thomas Partey in their tournament opener.

Nevertheless, the Black Stars remain determined to build on their winning start and maintain momentum at football’s biggest stage.

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