Boston: Ghana produced a disciplined defensive performance, led by an outstanding display from goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, to hold England to a goalless draw in their second Group L match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 at Boston Stadium.
The result earned both sides a valuable point and continued England’s recent trend of drawing at least one group-stage match in each of the last four World Cups.
England dominated much of the first half and created the better scoring opportunities, but Ghana’s resolute backline stood firm against repeated attacks. The closest England came to breaking the deadlock before the interval was when a header from Declan Rice struck the post and bounced away.
The second half saw England increase the pressure, only to be frustrated repeatedly by Asare. The Ghanaian goalkeeper produced key saves to deny Elliot Anderson and Anthony Gordon, keeping his side level. England captain Harry Kane also found space inside the penalty area but was unable to beat the alert shot-stopper, who emerged as the standout performer of the match.
Ghana grew into the contest in the closing stages and threatened an upset. With ten minutes remaining, Abdul Fatawu tested England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford with a powerful effort, forcing a crucial save.
England nearly snatched victory in the 87th minute when a cross from Reece James found Nick O’Reilly, whose header struck the post and rebounded away.
The draw leaves both teams with a realistic chance of progressing to the knockout stage. England will face Panama in their final group match, while Ghana take on Croatia. Both sides could still secure qualification for the Round of 32 with positive results in their concluding fixtures.
