World Cup 2026: Ghana turn attention to Colombia vs Portugal after Croatia defeat

World Cup 2026: Ghana turn attention to Colombia vs Portugal after Croatia defeat

Just hours after suffering their 2-1 defeat to Croatia, the Black Stars’ focus has already shifted to Sunday’s mouthwatering Group K clash between Colombia and Portugal – a match that will determine Ghana’s opponent in the round of 32.

Despite the loss in Philadelphia, Ghana had already secured their place in the knockout stages before kick-off, thanks to their 1-0 win over Panama and goalless draw against England. The Black Stars finished third in Group L with four points and will now face the winner of Group K on Thursday, July 2.

Petar Sucic gave Croatia the lead in the 31st minute, but Ghana responded through Derrick Luckassen, who scored on his World Cup debut in the 73rd minute to level the scores. However, Croatia quickly restored their advantage when Nikola Vlasic converted from a corner, securing a 2-1 victory that confirmed their progression.

Croatia finished second in the group with six points and will face the runner-up from Group K in the round of 32.

The final Group K match takes place on Sunday, June 28, at 00:30 GMT at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Both teams have already qualified for the knockout stage, but the result will determine who finishes top of the group.

Colombia currently lead Group K with six points from two wins, while Portugal sit second with four points. The scenario is simple: Colombia will secure top spot with a win or a draw. Portugal, meanwhile, must win to leapfrog Los Cafeteros and claim first place.

For Ghana, the stakes are clear. The winner of Group K will face the Black Stars in the round of 32. Should Colombia win or draw, they will top the group, and Ghana will face the South Americans. If Portugal win, Cristiano Ronaldo’s side will finish first, and Ghana will face the European giants.

Either opponent presents a formidable challenge. Colombia have been perfect so far, with victories over Uzbekistan and DR Congo, while Portugal boast a +5 goal difference and Cristiano Ronaldo in red-hot form.

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