Ghana defender Jerome Opoku has stressed the need for the Black Stars to become more effective in front of goal after their 2026 FIFA World Cup journey ended with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Colombia in the Round of 32.
Making his debut appearance at the global tournament, the centre-back impressed with another composed defensive display. However, he admitted the team’s inability to create meaningful attacking opportunities proved decisive.
Colombia secured victory through Jhon Arias’ early strike in the 14th minute, while Ghana struggled throughout the contest and failed to record a single shot on target.
Reflecting on the performance in an interview with Sporty TV after the match, Opoku highlighted the importance of balancing solid defending with greater attacking threat.
“We can defend well, but if we don’t score that one goal to ease the pressure on the defence, then it’s very difficult to win,” he said.
“That one goal can completely change the game and take some of the burden off the defenders.”
Despite acknowledging Ghana’s offensive struggles, the 26-year-old avoided criticising the tactical approach, insisting such decisions are the responsibility of the coaching staff.
“I’m not the coach, so I’ll leave those decisions to the coaches,” Opoku explained.
“My responsibility is to do my part on the pitch. We’re one team, and we’ll continue to stand together.”
The loss denied Ghana a place in the Round of 16, where Switzerland now await after progressing from the opposite side of the draw.
The Black Stars concluded their World Cup campaign with one victory, one draw and two defeats, managing only two goals in four matches.
Although Ghana’s defensive performances offered encouragement throughout the tournament, Opoku believes the team must become more clinical in attack if they are to make a deeper run at future major competitions.
