World Cup 2026: England 0-0 Ghana Player Ratings

Ghana produced one of the performances of the tournament so far as the Black Stars held England to a goalless draw in their second Group L match at Gillette Stadium in Boston. Against a team ranked among the favourites to win the World Cup, Ghana displayed discipline, resilience and tactical maturity to earn a valuable point that keeps their qualification hopes firmly in their own hands.

Match Report

England dominated possession for long periods and finished the match with 79% of the ball, but Ghana’s defensive organization frustrated the Three Lions throughout the contest.

The Black Stars defended compactly, limited clear-cut opportunities and looked dangerous whenever they broke forward. Jordan Ayew led the line with determination, while Antoine Semenyo worked tirelessly against England’s defence.

The biggest talking point before kickoff was the return of Thomas Partey after the midfielder had missed Ghana’s opening match against Panama due to visa issues. The experienced midfielder immediately brought calmness and control to the centre of the pitch, helping Ghana withstand wave after wave of English pressure.

England registered 19 shots compared to Ghana’s two, but Carlos Queiroz’s side showed tremendous character. Goalkeeper Benjamin Asare was called into action several times, while the defensive partnership of Jerome Opoku and Jonathan Adjetey stood firm against England’s attacking stars.

By the final whistle, Ghana had secured a priceless point and moved a step closer to a place in the knockout rounds.

Ghana Player Ratings

Goalkeeper

Benjamin Asare – 7.4

Another excellent display from the Hearts of Oak goalkeeper. Made crucial saves and commanded his area confidently throughout the match.

Defence

Gideon Mensah – 7.5

Outstanding defensively. Contained England’s wide attackers and rarely put a foot wrong.

Jerome Opoku – 7.6

One of Ghana’s best players. Strong in tackles, dominant in the air and composed under pressure.

Jonathan Adjetey – 6.8

Produced another solid performance and helped keep a clean sheet against elite opposition.

Marvin Senaya – 7.3

Worked tirelessly on the right side and contributed significantly to Ghana’s defensive effort.

Midfield

Thomas Partey – 7.6

A huge influence on his return to the team. Controlled possession, broke up attacks and brought leadership to the midfield.

Kwasi Sibo – 6.7

Provided energy and discipline alongside Partey in the middle of the park.

Caleb Yirenkyi – 6.4

Worked hard defensively and helped Ghana maintain its shape.

Attack

Jordan Ayew – 6.5

The captain battled tirelessly and led Ghana’s pressing from the front.

Antoine Semenyo – 6.1

Worked hard but found opportunities limited against England’s defence.

Inaki Williams – 6.1

Picked up a yellow card and endured a frustrating evening before being substituted.

Substitutes

Abdul Fatawu Issahaku – 6.7

Added pace and energy after coming on in the second half.

Kojo Peprah Oppong – 6.7

Made a positive contribution during the closing stages.

Prince Kwabena Adu – 6.2

Worked hard after replacing Jordan Ayew late in the match.

Rahman Baba – N/A

Introduced in stoppage time and played too few minutes to earn a rating.

Verdict

Benjamin Asare, Thomas Partey and Jerome Opoku were Ghana’s standout performers as the Black Stars frustrated one of the tournament favourites. While England controlled possession and created more chances, Ghana’s defensive discipline and fighting spirit earned a deserved point that could prove decisive in the battle for qualification from Group L.