2026 FIFA World Cup: Ghana holds Colonial Masters to a draw in Boston

Ghana produced a disciplined and resilient display to hold England to a goalless draw in their second Group L match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday night in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

The result leaves the Black Stars in a strong position in the race for a place in the knockout stages after following up their opening victory over Panama with a hard-earned point against one of the tournament favourites.

Head coach Carlos Queiroz made four changes to the side that defeated Panama, with Thomas Partey returning to the starting lineup after missing the opening game.

Goalkeeper Benjamin Asare retained his place between the posts, while Inaki Williams and Kwasi Sibo were also handed starts.

As expected, England controlled possession for large periods of the contest and attempted to impose themselves from the opening whistle.

However, Ghana’s defensive organisation frustrated the Three Lions throughout the match.

The Black Stars remained compact and disciplined, limiting clear-cut opportunities despite England’s dominance of the ball.

Jonas Adjetey and Jerome Opoku were outstanding in central defence, while Gideon Mensah and Marvin Senaya worked tirelessly to keep England’s dangerous attacking players at bay.

Ghana also posed a threat on the counterattack through the pace of Inaki Williams and Antoine Semenyo, although the final ball often lacked the precision needed to trouble the English defence.

The game’s defining moments came late in the second half as England intensified their search for a winner.

Captain Harry Kane came closest when he found space inside the penalty area and unleashed a powerful effort towards goal in the 86th minute.

However, Asare produced a magnificent save to push the ball away and preserve Ghana’s clean sheet.

Moments later, England were denied again when Nico O’Reilly rose highest to meet a cross, only to see his header crash against the crossbar.

The near misses summed up England’s frustrating evening as Ghana’s defence stood firm until the final whistle.

For Queiroz and his players, the draw will feel almost as valuable as a victory. The Black Stars showed tactical discipline, determination and defensive solidity against one of the strongest teams in the competition.

With four points from their opening two matches, Ghana now head into their final group fixture against Croatia knowing that another positive result could secure a place in the knockout stages of the World Cup.