Ghana Loses to Croatia, Finishes Third in Group L at the 2026 World Cup

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Ghana’s Black Stars finished third in Group L after a 2‑1 loss to Croatia at Philadelphia Stadium on Saturday, while England claimed the group’s top spot with a 2‑0 victory over Panama in New Jersey.

Derrick Luckassen scored Ghana’s first goal to level the match after Petar Sučić opened it in the first half, but Croatia added a late goal to secure all three points.

Ghana Slip To First Defeat

Sučić gave Croatia the lead in the 19th minute with a low drive from outside the box, putting his side ahead at half‑time.

The Black Stars responded strongly after the break, equalising in the 73rd minute when Luckassen volleyed home a free‑kick from Ernest Nuamah.

Ten minutes later, Croatia reclaimed the advantage when Nikola Vlašić headed Luka Modrić’s corner past the Ghana goalkeeper, sealing second place in the group.

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The hard‑earned win sends Croatia into the Round of 32 after finishing second in the group.

Ghana will face the winners of Group K in the Round of 32 at Kansas City Stadium next Sunday.

England Overcome Panama

In the group’s other match, England struggled to break down an already‑eliminated Panama side before scoring twice within five minutes early in the second half.

Jude Bellingham opened the scoring in the 62nd minute, then set up Harry Kane, who headed home the second goal to secure the win and confirm England as Group L champions.

England will now wait for the remaining group results to determine their Round of 32 opponents.

By Adeboye Amosu