Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew has expressed confidence that Ghana are well prepared tactically as they gear up for a decisive Round of 32 encounter against Colombia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The two nations meet on Saturday at the Kansas City Stadium, with a place in the last 16 at stake.
Ghana advanced to the knockout phase after a demanding group campaign that ended with a narrow 2-1 defeat to Croatia.
While scrutiny has surrounded the team’s approach under coach Carlos Queiroz, Ayew believes the transition into knockout football brings a different mentality and demands full focus.
Speaking at a press conference, the experienced forward stressed the importance of treating the group stage as a separate chapter.
“The Croatia game was a one-off game, so let’s take it like that. But the Colombia game is a knockout game, so it’s gonna be totally different. We will have to be ready for that challenge.”
Colombia head into the fixture in strong form after an impressive group stage performance, with their energetic pressing and attacking intensity expected to test Ghana’s structure.
Several African teams, including South Africa, Ivory Coast, DR Congo, and Senegal, have already exited the tournament at this stage, leaving Ghana and Morocco among the continent’s remaining representatives.
Despite the challenge, Ayew maintained belief in the technical direction of the team and the preparation provided by the coaching staff.
”Colombia is a top side, and it’s going to be a difficult game, but I’m confident about the tactics the manager has told us, and I think we will be ready for that challenge, so there is no problem about that.”
Ghana, who famously reached the quarter-finals in 2010, will be hoping to repeat history when they face Colombia, with kick-off set for 01:30 GMT.
