Colombia Edge Ghana to Reach Last 16 in World Cup 2026

Colombia scraped past Ghana in a tense, tightly contested round-of-32 showdown, booking their spot in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The victory sets up a last-16 clash with Switzerland.

The only goal of the game came early, courtesy of Jhon Arias, who pounced on a well-delivered cross from substitute Luis Suarez. The moment was born out of necessity: shortly before the goal, a tactical switch was made following an injury substitution, which ultimately paid off.

With the expanded 48-team format now in effect for the first time, this match was a must-win for both sides — and Colombia delivered under pressure. They advanced from the group stage with an unbeaten run at the tournament.

Ghana, meanwhile, were utterly toothless in attack. They managed not a single shot on target throughout the full 90 minutes — a stark indictment of their inability to breach Colombia’s disciplined defensive structure.

Now, Colombia turn their attention to Switzerland in a high-stakes battle for a place in the quarter-finals. With nerves fraying and stakes higher than ever, the stage is set for another brutal, must-win encounter.