Ghana’s Knockout Path Takes Shape: Portugal or Colombia Await as Partey’s Availability Hinges on Croatia Clash

The Black Stars of Ghana head into their final Group L match against Croatia on Saturday with qualification to the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 hanging in the balance.

However, the outcome of that crucial encounter will not only determine Ghana’s final group position but also decide their knockout opponents and whether influential midfielder Thomas Partey will be available for selection.

After opening their campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama and following it up with a disciplined goalless draw against England, Ghana currently sit in a strong position to advance from Group L. The Black Stars have shown resilience, defensive organisation and tactical maturity, giving supporters renewed hope of a deep World Cup run.

The permutations ahead of the Croatia clash are now becoming clear.

Should Ghana avoid defeat against Croatia, Carlos Queiroz’s side would secure a higher finishing position in Group L and earn a Round of 32 showdown against Portugal in Toronto.

Portugal have once again demonstrated their quality on the global stage, boasting a squad packed with experience, technical brilliance and attacking firepower.

A meeting with Portugal would undoubtedly be one of the biggest matches of Ghana’s campaign. Memories would immediately return to the famous encounters between the two nations at previous World Cups, including Ghana’s dramatic victory over Portugal in Qatar four years ago. It would be another opportunity for the Black Stars to test themselves against one of Europe’s football giants.

However, there is a major setback attached to that scenario. Midfield leader Thomas Partey would be unavailable for the match due to visa-related issues. His absence would deprive Ghana of one of their most experienced players and a key figure in controlling games from midfield.

On the other hand, if Ghana lose to Croatia, the Black Stars would still progress to the knockout stage but would instead face Colombia in Atlanta.

Colombia have been one of South America’s strongest sides in recent years, combining physicality, technical quality and attacking flair. While they present a different challenge from Portugal, they are equally capable of punishing any mistakes.

The positive news for Ghana in that scenario is that Thomas Partey would be available for selection. His return would significantly strengthen the Black Stars’ midfield, providing leadership, defensive protection and composure in possession during what would be a high-stakes knockout encounter.

As a result, Saturday’s meeting with Croatia carries enormous significance beyond simply securing qualification. The result will shape Ghana’s entire knockout route, determine the calibre and style of opposition awaiting them, and influence whether one of their most important players can take part.

For now, all attention turns to Croatia. A positive result would keep Ghana’s momentum going and set up a blockbuster clash with Portugal in Toronto. A defeat would redirect the Black Stars toward a different challenge against Colombia in Atlanta, this time with Thomas Partey available.

Either way, Ghana remain firmly in the hunt as they chase a place in the latter stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.