Colombia continued their strong start to the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a controlled 1-0 win over Ghana in Kansas City, a result that secured their place in the Round of 16 and extended their unbeaten run to four matches.
The game began at pace, with Ghana creating the first real chance inside two minutes when Thomas Partey tested the Colombia defence with a powerful effort from distance. That early attempt proved to be one of their few clear openings in the match.
Colombia soon took control and made the breakthrough in the 14th minute. Luis Suárez, starting in place of the injured Jhon Córdoba, drove down the right and delivered a low cross into the area, where Jhon Arias met it first time and finished into the bottom corner.
From there, Néstor Lorenzo’s side dictated much of the play. Colombia went close to adding a second before half-time, with Luis Díaz firing wide from a promising position and Lawrence Ati-Zigi producing a strong save to deny Johan Mojica’s header.
Ghana were unable to build sustained pressure and found it increasingly difficult to create chances as the match wore on. Colombia also came close again early in the second half when Díaz thought he had doubled the lead, but the goal was ruled out for a tight offside after Arias provided the assist.
Díaz was denied again shortly afterwards when Ati-Zigi reacted well to keep out a close-range effort after he was left unmarked in the penalty area.
Colombia remained in control through the closing stages, managing the game and limiting Ghana to no shots on target after the opening minutes.
The win ensures Colombia finish the group stage unbeaten and move into the last 16, where they will face Switzerland in Vancouver on July 7.
