Ghana ended their Group L campaign with a 2-1 defeat to Croatia at Lincoln Financial Field but still progressed to the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Croatia took the lead in the 31st minute through Inter Milan midfielder Petar Sučić, whose strike gave the Blazers a deserved advantage heading into the halftime break.
The Black Stars responded strongly after the restart and found an equaliser in the 76th minute when Derrick Luckassen tapped home from Ernest Nuamah’s inviting cross. The goal was checked by VAR before being awarded.
However, Ghana’s joy was short-lived as Croatia restored their lead just seven minutes later. Nikola Vlašić rose highest to head home from Luka Modrić’s corner, sealing all three points for Zlatko Dalić’s side.
In the other Group L fixture, England defeated Panama 2-0 to finish top of the standings, while Croatia placed second. Ghana finished third, with all three teams advancing to the knockout stage.
The Black Stars will now turn their attention to the Round of 32, where they will face the winners of Group K. Their opponents will be confirmed after the decisive group-stage clash between Portugal and Colombia.
