World Cup 2026: Doubt over Lawrence Ati-Zigi fitness hours before Ghana vs England Group L clash

Ghana’s World Cup campaign faces a major hurdle as first-choice goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi battles a groin injury ahead of today’s Group L clash against England at Boston Stadium.

Crucial fitness test delayed

Head coach Carlos Queiroz and the Black Stars’ medical team have opted to delay the final decision on Ati-Zigi’s availability until the eleventh hour.

The St. Gallen shot-stopper sustained the injury during a heavy first-half collision in Ghana’s 1-0 tournament-opening victory over Panama. Despite attempting to play through the discomfort, he was substituted at halftime.

He has since sat out full squad training, managing only light, individual drills under goalkeeping coach Daniel Gaspar. Queiroz remains hopeful but insists he will not risk the player’s long-term tournament fitness.

Asare prepared to step in

If Ati-Zigi fails the late fitness test, Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare will earn the biggest start of his career.

Asare delivered a highly composed, pressure-cooked performance off the bench against Panama, securing the clean sheet to preserve Ghana’s vital three points.

The technical team has expressed absolute confidence in Asare’s readiness to face England’s potent frontline, which put four goals past Croatia in their opening match.

High stakes in Group L

The injury cloud arrives at a defining moment for Ghana, as they sit tied with England at the summit of Group L.

With England leading on goal difference following their thrilling 4-2 win over Croatia, today’s encounter will likely decide who takes ultimate control of the group.

A positive result for the Black Stars keeps their knockout stage dreams firmly on track, while a loss leaves them vulnerable ahead of the final group fixture.