World Cup 2026: Benjamin Asare urges calm after Ghana’s defeat to Croatia

Black Stars goalkeeper Benjamin Asare has urged Ghanaians to remain optimistic despite Ghana’s 2-1 defeat to Croatia in their final Group L match.

Speaking to journalists after Saturday’s encounter, Asare insisted the team’s focus had already shifted to the knockout stage, expressing confidence that Ghana could still enjoy a successful campaign despite the setback.

“Ghanaians should not be worried. We will see how we can get it done,” the goalkeeper said. “In football anything can happen. It’s not our wish to lose so let’s look forward to our next game. Everything will be fine.”

Ghana entered the match at Philadelphia Stadium having already secured qualification to the Round of 32 with four points from their opening two games.

The fixture, however, carried significance as both teams battled for a stronger finishing position in the group standings.

Croatia broke the deadlock in the 31st minute through Petar Sučić, whose low strike from about 30 yards beat the Ghana goalkeeper. The Black Stars responded in the 73rd minute when Derrick Luckassen bundled home Ernest Nuamah’s cross after a lengthy VAR review confirmed the goal.

The contest remained finely balanced until the 83rd minute when Nikola Vlašić restored Croatia’s lead, heading home Luka Modrić’s corner to secure all three points for his side.

Despite the defeat, Ghana progressed to the Round of 32 alongside Croatia. England finished as Group L winners after recording a 2-0 victory over Panama in the group’s other fixture.

The Black Stars will now turn their attention to a Round of 32 showdown with Colombia, the final fixture of the knockout stage, while Croatia are set to face Portugal.

Asare believes the team’s qualification should give supporters confidence ahead of the next challenge, maintaining that the players remain determined to respond positively.