Black stars team at Fifa World Cup 2026 Source: @CITISPORTS
The Black Stars of Ghana produced a tactical masterclass in defensive resilience to earn a crucial goalless draw against tournament heavyweights England at the Boston Stadium. Under immense pressure, the African giants held firm to neutralise a star-studded English attack and put themselves in a fantastic position to secure a spot in the Round of 32.
Here is how the Ghanaian players rated in their spectacular defensive display in Massachusetts.
Benjamin Asare (7/10)
The shot-stopper commanded his penalty area brilliantly and made several vital interventions, notably denying Anthony Gordon and Bukayo Saka in the second half. While occasionally relying on his defenders to clear the lines under heavy pressure, he thoroughly earned his clean sheet at the tournament.
Marvin Senaya (7/10)
Putting in an energetic shift down the right flank, the full-back completely shut down England’s early threat from Anthony Gordon. Senaya racked up four crucial clearances and won the vast majority of his individual tackles in a flawless defensive display.
Jonas Adjetey (5/10)
It proved to be a difficult outing for the young defender, who struggled inside his duels against a world-class frontline. A critical error in possession gave England a dangerous sight of goal, though he was fortunately bailed out by his defensive partner.
Jerome Opoku (7/10)
A commanding presence at the heart of the backline, Opoku covered brilliantly for Adjetey’s nervy moments. He dominated the aerial battles, winning six out of his seven duels and recording five key clearances to frustrate Harry Kane.
Gideon Mensah (7/10)
The left-back put on a masterclass in positional awareness and tactical bravery, effectively limiting the impact of Noni Madueke out wide. Mensah finished the match with an impressive nine clearances and four vital recoveries.
Thomas Partey (7/10)
Despite facing a hostile reception from the opposing fans before kickoff, the experienced midfielder acted as an immovable screen ahead of the back four. His positioning severely restricted Jude Bellingham’s ability to operate between the lines.
Caleb Yirenkyi (5/10)
With Ghana pinned deep inside their own half for large parts of the game, the midfielder struggled to influence transition play and was largely bypassed by the English engine room.
Antoine Semenyo (5/10)
Semenyo found it incredibly difficult to find space to hurt England on the counter-attack. His evening was unfortunately summed up when he inadvertently blocked a goalbound effort from teammate Abdul Fatawu late in the game.
Iñaki Williams (5/10)
The forward was left completely isolated up front, registering a mere 16 touches before being substituted in the second half. He struggled to retain possession when the ball was cleared long.
