Colombia beats Ghana in World Cup round of 32; Queiroz reunion adds intrigue

Colombia defeated Ghana 1-0 in the 2026 World Cup round of 32, advancing to the quarterfinals. The match was marked by the reunion of Colombia with former coach Carlos Queiroz, now leading Ghana. Source: Infobae

The match

Colombia controlled possession early, and Jhon Arias scored the winner in the 14th minute after a cross from Luis Javier Suárez. Ghana struggled to create clear chances, with Colombia's defense neutralizing threats from Iñaki Williams and Jordan Ayew. Source: Infobae Both teams suffered early injuries: Jhon Córdoba (Colombia) and Marvin Senaya (Ghana) were forced off. Source: Infobae

Queiroz's return

Carlos Queiroz, who coached Colombia from 2019 to 2020, faced his former side. His tenure ended after heavy losses in World Cup qualifying, but he now leads Ghana at the tournament. Source: El País Queiroz had built Ghana to be "an ordered group, with great physical capacity and verticality." Source: El Mundo Despite the loss, Queiroz praised Colombia's progress under Néstor Lorenzo. Source: El Colombiano

Format controversy

The expanded 48-team format, introducing a round of 32, drew criticism. Queiroz called it "vulgar and ordinary," while Marcelo Bielsa said it dilutes competition. Source: Heraldo MX Colombian expert Juan Carlos Osorio, however, backed Colombia's strength, highlighting full-backs Daniel Muñoz and Johan Mojica as key assets. Source: El Colombiano