World Cup 2026: Ghana goalkeeper Ati Zigi to undergo scan ahead of England clash

During one of Panama’s first-half attacks, Ati Zigi collided heavily with a Panama player while coming off his line to make a save. The Ghana goalkeeper received treatment on the pitch after the incident but was unable to continue and was replaced at half-time by Benjamin Asare.

While the Ghana Football Association is yet to confirm the nature of the injury, early indications suggest it could be serious, leaving Ati Zigi as a major doubt for the Black Stars’ crucial Group L clash against England on Tuesday in Boston.

The 29-year-old played an important role before his withdrawal, producing a fine early save to deny Panama before battling through discomfort until halftime.

Benjamin Asare impressed after replacing Ati Zigi, keeping a clean sheet and helping Ghana hold on before Caleb Yirenkyi’s dramatic 95th-minute winner secured all three points.

Carlos Queiroz’s side returned to their training base in Providence, Rhode Island, on Thursday, where Ati Zigi will undergo further assessment to determine the extent of the injury.

The scan is expected to provide clarity on whether Ghana’s first-choice goalkeeper will be available for one of the biggest matches of the group stage.

With England coming off a 4-2 victory over Croatia, losing Ati Zigi would be another major setback for the Black Stars, who were already without midfielder Thomas Partey for the opening game against Panama.

Should Ati Zigi fail to recover in time, Benjamin Asare is expected to make his first World Cup start against the Three Lions after an assured display from the bench in Toronto.

Source:Fiilasports/ghanasoccernet