Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi is facing a race against time to be fit for the Black Stars’ crucial Group L clash against England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering an injury in the opening win over Panama.
The St. Gallen shot-stopper was substituted at half-time during Ghana’s 1-0 victory in Toronto on Wednesday after struggling with an apparent knock sustained in the first half. Ati-Zigi required treatment on three separate occasions, including a lengthy stoppage following a collision with Panama midfielder Carlos Harvey during an aerial challenge inside the penalty area.
The goalkeeper appeared uncomfortable for the remainder of the half and repeatedly looked towards the bench, prompting the technical team to replace him with Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare at the interval.
Asare delivered an assured performance on his World Cup debut, helping Ghana preserve a clean sheet and secure all three points.
The Black Stars claimed victory late in the game when Caleb Yirenkyi tapped home from close range after Coventry City forward Brandon Thomas-Asante burst down the right flank and delivered a dangerous ball across the six-yard box.
Ghana currently sit second in Group L behind England on goal difference ahead of their highly anticipated meeting.
