By By Elizabeth Ugbo
BOSTON, June 24, 2026 — England failed to secure early qualification for the World Cup knockout stage after drawing 0-0 with Ghana at Boston Stadium on Wednesday. Thomas Tuchel’s side needed a victory to confirm progression from Group L. However, Ghana’s disciplined defence denied the Three Lions despite late pressure. The result leaves England top of the group heading into their final match against Panama.
Ghana’s Defensive Plan Stifles England
England entered the match full of confidence after their impressive win over Croatia. However, Ghana adopted a completely different approach.
Instead of pressing high, Ghana sat deep and remained compact. As a result, England dominated possession but struggled to create clear opportunities.
The Three Lions waited until the 57th minute to register a shot on target. Meanwhile, Ghana looked dangerous on the counterattack and exposed England’s defensive weaknesses on several occasions.
Tuchel Turns to His Bench
Seeking a breakthrough, Tuchel introduced Bukayo Saka and Morgan Rogers in the second half.
Saka immediately added energy to England’s attack. The Arsenal winger forced Ghana goalkeeper Benjamin Asare into an excellent save.
England increased the pressure during the closing stages. Nevertheless, luck deserted them when Nico O’Reilly’s header struck the crossbar.
Shortly afterward, Marc Guehi saw his goal-bound header cleared off the line.
Despite their late dominance, England could not find a winning goal.
England Escape Late Penalty Scare
Ghana nearly secured victory in dramatic fashion.
Late in the game, Ezri Konsa brought down Prince Kwabena Adu inside the penalty area. However, officials waved play on despite strong appeals from the Ghanaian players.
The decision allowed England to escape with a point.
Colombia Secure Knockout Qualification
Elsewhere in Guadalajara, Colombia booked their place in the World Cup knockout rounds with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over DR Congo.
The South Americans controlled much of the contest but faced stubborn resistance from goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.
Daniel Munoz finally broke the deadlock in the 76th minute.
Juan Fernando Quintero delivered a precise pass into the defender’s path. Subsequently, Munoz fired a left-footed effort that took a slight deflection before beating Mpasi.
Munoz Delivers After Earlier Near Misses
Munoz threatened throughout the match.
In the fourth minute, he fired into the side netting after Jhon Arias’ effort rebounded into his path.
Moments later, officials ruled out another effort for offside following a tight decision.
Colombia continued to create chances. However, Mpasi produced several outstanding saves to keep DR Congo in the game.
Luis Diaz also missed a golden opportunity shortly after halftime when he failed to beat the goalkeeper from close range.
Eventually, Munoz provided the decisive moment that Colombia deserved.
What the Results Mean
The draw leaves England in control of Group L. However, they must avoid defeat against Panama to guarantee a place in the knockout rounds.
Meanwhile, Colombia remain top of Group K and have already secured progression to the last 32.
On the other hand, DR Congo now face a must-win encounter against Uzbekistan to keep their qualification hopes alive.
