Ghana's Black Stars progressed to the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite suffering a 2-1 defeat to Croatia in their final Group L fixture at Philadelphia Stadium on Sunday morning.The result saw Ghana finish third in the group, with their earlier performances proving enough to secure a place in the knockout stages.##NAJAVA_MECA_9823515##The contest began at a subdued pace, with both sides struggling to create meaningful opportunities in a first half that lacked intensity. Croatia gradually assumed control of possession but found Ghana's defence well-organised, while the Black Stars looked to threaten on the counterattack.The deadlock was eventually broken in the 31st minute when Petar Sucic was afforded too much space around 25 yards from goal. The Croatian midfielder took a touch before drilling a low strike into the bottom corner to give his side the lead.Thank you, Egypt, thank you, VAR: Senegal reach World Cup knockout phaseGhana responded with greater urgency and restored parity midway through the second half. A well-delivered free-kick found Luckassen unmarked at the back post, where he bundled the ball into the net. The assistant referee initially ruled the goal out for offside, but after a lengthy VAR review and an on-field check, the decision was overturned and the equaliser was awarded in the 73rd minute.The parity lasted only 10 minutes. Croatia reclaimed the lead in the 83rd minute when veteran midfielder Luka Modric curled in an inviting corner and Nikola Vlasic rose highest to head beyond Lawrence Ati-Zigi, sealing a hard-fought victory for the Europeans.Harambee Stars midfielder one game away from historic five-peat with YangaDespite the defeat, Ghana had already done enough across their first two group matches to secure qualification for the Round of 32, finishing third in Group L.Elsewhere, England confirmed top spot in the group with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Panama at the New York New Jersey Stadium.After being frustrated by Panama's disciplined defence in the opening half, the Three Lions broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute when Bukayo Saka teed up Jude Bellingham, who finished calmly from inside the area.Is Taddeo Lwanga the man to help AFC Leopards end 29-year league drought?Thomas Tuchel's side doubled their advantage five minutes later as Bellingham turned provider, combining brilliantly with captain Harry Kane, who slotted home to wrap up England's third consecutive victory of the tournament.Panama briefly thought they had grabbed a late consolation through Jose Fajardo in stoppage time, but the goal was ruled out for offside.England finished top of the group with seven points, while Croatia secured second place with six after defeating Ghana. The Black Stars finished third with four points..Veteran defender parts ways with APS Bomet after top-flight survival, eyes fresh challengeWORLD CUP – GROUP STAGE (ROUND 3)Group ICroatia- Ghana 2-1 (1-0)/Sucic 31, Vlasic 83-Luckassen 73/Panama-England 0-2 (0-0)/Bellingham 62, Kane 67/
125