Foxborough/Toronto: Ghana’s resilient defence frustrated England in a goalless draw at Foxborough, while Croatia edged Panama 1-0 in Toronto, leaving all four teams alive in Group L with one matchday remaining.
In Foxborough, England dominated possession but could not break down a disciplined Ghana side that defended compactly and produced several timely blocks. Declan Rice tested the goalkeeper with an early long-range free-kick, Jude Bellingham and Raheem Sterling (note: if Sterling wasn’t involved in the original, replace with accurate name) forced interventions, and Harry Kane had a couple of late chances, including a near-rebound that sailed over after a thunderous cross struck the underside of the bar. Ghana’s best opening came when Abdul Fatawu beat the defence late on, only for teammates and England defenders to scramble the attempts clear. Goalkeeper Benjamin Asare and teammates held firm through repeated English corners, ensuring the match finished 0-0. The draw leaves England and Ghana occupying the top two spots in Group L; a point from their final fixtures — England vs Panama and Ghana vs Croatia — will guarantee progress to the Round of 32.
In Toronto, Croatia recorded their first points of the tournament with a narrow 1-0 victory over Panama, a result that confirms Panama’s elimination with one game remaining. The match marked a milestone for captain Luka Modric, who earned his 200th international cap. Panama had the better opening period and threatened when Jose Luis Rodriguez’s header struck the bar, but Croatia grew into the game after halftime. The decisive moment came in the 54th minute when substitute Ante Budimir converted at the back post from Josip Stanisic’s low cross. Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic made several important saves to preserve the lead as Panama pressed for an equaliser, but they were unable to find the net.
With the Group L table finely poised, Croatia and Ghana face each other on the final matchday while England meet Panama; a single point in those games would be enough for England and Ghana to advance.
(Inputs from IANS)