World Cup 2026: Major blow for Ghana as Lawrence Ati-Zigi ruled out of England clash

Ghana have been dealt a significant setback ahead of their crucial Group L showdown with England after first-choice goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi was ruled out through injury.

The 29-year-old shot-stopper suffered a groin injury during Ghana’s dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in their World Cup opener. Ati-Zigi was hurt following a heavy collision while rushing off his line to deny a Panama attack and, despite attempting to continue, was eventually substituted at halftime.

Medical assessments have now confirmed that the St. Gallen goalkeeper will be unavailable for the upcoming clash against England, with reports indicating that the injury could sideline him for several weeks.

The injury comes as a major blow for head coach Carlos Queiroz, especially considering the importance of Ati-Zigi’s role within the Black Stars setup. The experienced goalkeeper has been Ghana’s first-choice option for several years and was one of the team’s standout performers before being forced off against Panama. He made an excellent early save to deny Cecilio Waterman and helped keep Ghana in the contest during a difficult first half.

Queiroz had already expressed concern about the goalkeeper’s condition immediately after the Panama victory, admitting that Ati-Zigi’s availability for the England match was uncertain.

His absence means Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare is now expected to make his first FIFA World Cup start when Ghana face the Three Lions in Boston.

There is optimism within the Ghana camp regarding Asare’s ability to step in. The 33-year-old produced a composed performance after replacing Ati-Zigi against Panama, helping preserve the clean sheet before Caleb Yirenkyi’s dramatic stoppage-time winner secured all three points.

Asare has enjoyed a remarkable rise over the past year. After impressing for Hearts of Oak in the Ghana Premier League, he earned recognition with the national team and has established himself as a reliable backup option.

The timing of the injury could hardly be worse for Ghana. England arrive full of confidence after their entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia, with Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and company posing a serious attacking threat.

Ati-Zigi’s injury also adds to Ghana’s growing list of concerns, with midfielder Thomas Partey already unavailable during the tournament due to off-field complications.

Despite the setback, the Black Stars remain in a strong position after their winning start. A positive result against England would move them significantly closer to securing qualification for the Round of 32.

Now, much of Ghana’s attention will turn to Benjamin Asare, who has the opportunity to become one of the stories of the tournament if he can help the Black Stars overcome one of the competition’s favourites.