Ghana's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign has suffered a major blow as first-choice goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to a groin injury. The St. Gallen shot-stopper was substituted at half-time during Ghana's 1-0 victory over Panama on June 17, with Benjamin Asare replacing him.
Injury Details
According to AfricaSoccer, the 29-year-old sustained the injury following an awkward landing after a challenge with a Panama player. Ati-Zigi received medical attention twice during the first half and initially attempted to play on, but the coaching staff decided to replace him during the interval. Groin injuries can sideline players for weeks or months, making it highly unlikely that Ati-Zigi will feature again in the tournament.
Benjamin Asare's Historic Opportunity
Accra Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare is now expected to start Ghana's next match against England. The 33-year-old is on course to become the first home-based goalkeeper to start a FIFA World Cup match for the Black Stars, according to Modern Ghana. Asare already made history against Panama when he became the first goalkeeper playing in Ghana's domestic league to feature in a World Cup match for the national team.
Fan Reactions
Some Ghanaian fans have speculated on social media that Ati-Zigi's injury may have had a spiritual cause, although there is no evidence to support such claims. User @The_1CRITIC said: "Too much Juju in the @GhanaBlackstars. Some of the players have been casting spells..." Another user, @deku_james4722, wrote: "Not all injuries are physical~So don't go to football tournament empty. Pray and let people be interceding for you."
Ghana Equals Nigeria's World Cup Record
In related news, Ghana has drawn level with Nigeria as the African nation with the most victories in FIFA World Cup history after securing a dramatic late win over Panama. Carlos Queiroz's side left it until the dying moments to claim a hard-fought 1-0 victory in Toronto, with substitute Caleb Yirenkyi scoring his first international goal deep into stoppage time.
