Ghana have been dealt a defensive setback ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 meeting with Colombia on Saturday, with Kojo Oppong Peprah ruled out after sustaining an injury during training.

Scans confirmed the 22-year-old will be unable to recover in time for the knockout fixture. Despite limited appearances at the tournament, Peprah had endeared himself to Black Stars supporters with a series of eye-catching displays.

A tournament to remember — and one cut short

Peprah made his Ghana debut under former coach Otto Addo in a friendly against Germany — a game the Black Stars lost, but one where the youngster stood out as a rare positive.

At the World Cup, he produced a moment that will live long in the memory: a headed goal-line clearance in the dying seconds of Ghana's match against England, having been on the pitch for just three minutes. He then played the full second half in the final group-stage fixture against Croatia.

His absence leaves coach Carlos Queiroz with a defensive puzzle to solve ahead of Monday's knockout showdown. Peprah's pace, mobility, and fearless style were considered valuable tools against Colombia's potent attack.

Reinforcements on the way

There is, however, some encouraging news for Ghana. Jerome Opoku — who had impressed significantly in the opening two group games before missing the third match through injury — is expected to be available for the Colombia tie.

Goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi, who started Ghana's opening game against Panama, has also been declared fit by Football Association officials.

Peprah is set to remain with the squad, supporting his teammates from the stands as the Black Stars prepare for the biggest match of their tournament.