Ghana’s preparations for their highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup clash against England have been dealt a potential setback, with first-choice goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi facing a race against time to recover from injury.
The experienced shot-stopper was forced off at half-time during the Black Stars’ hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening Group L fixture in Toronto on Wednesday.
Ati-Zigi endured a difficult first half after requiring medical attention on three separate occasions. The most serious incident occurred when he was caught in a heavy aerial collision with Panama midfielder Carlos Harvey inside the penalty area.
The St. Gallen goalkeeper received lengthy treatment but continued playing before visibly struggling in the closing stages of the first half. Concerned by his condition, Ghana’s technical team opted to replace him during the interval.
Benjamin Asare Impresses After Coming On
Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare was introduced for the second half and delivered a composed performance between the posts.
The locally-based goalkeeper looked assured throughout his time on the pitch and played an important role in helping Ghana maintain a clean sheet against a determined Panama side.
Asare’s performance will provide encouragement for head coach Carlos Queiroz should Ati-Zigi fail to recover in time for the crucial encounter against England.
Yirenkyi Secures Vital Victory
The Black Stars eventually secured all three points thanks to a late goal from Caleb Yirenkyi.
The FC Nordsjaelland midfielder tapped into an empty net from close range after excellent work from Brandon Thomas-Asante, whose introduction transformed Ghana’s attacking threat.
The Coventry City forward burst down the right flank before delivering a dangerous ball across the six-yard box, allowing Yirenkyi to finish and send Ghanaian supporters into celebration.
England Showdown Looms Large
With England defeating Croatia in the group’s other fixture, the Black Stars currently sit second in Group L on goal difference.
The upcoming meeting with England is expected to play a major role in determining qualification for the knockout stages, making Ati-Zigi’s fitness a growing concern for the Ghanaian camp.
The medical team is expected to closely monitor the goalkeeper over the coming days before making a final decision on his availability.
Should he fail to recover, Benjamin Asare could be handed one of the biggest opportunities of his career by starting against one of the tournament favourites.
For now, Ghana will hope their first-choice goalkeeper can make a swift recovery as they prepare for a pivotal Group L showdown.