Jordan Ayew Backs Ghana to Rise to Colombia Test
Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew says Ghana are fully prepared for their biggest test of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they gear up for a Round of 32 showdown against Colombia on Saturday.
The experienced forward believes the Black Stars have put in the necessary work ahead of the knockout fixture and is confident the tactical approach devised by head coach Carlos Queiroz will give the team every chance of progressing.
Although Ayew acknowledged the quality of the South American opponents, he stressed that Ghana are ready to embrace the challenge when the two sides meet at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.
“Colombia are a top side, and it’s going to be a difficult game, but I’m confident about the tactics the manager has told us,” Ayew said.
“I think we will be ready for the challenge, so there is no problem about that.”
The encounter represents a significant milestone for the Black Stars, who are featuring in the knockout rounds of the World Cup for the first time since their memorable run to the quarter-finals in South Africa in 2010.
It will also be the first-ever competitive meeting between Ghana and Colombia, adding extra intrigue to one of the standout fixtures in the Round of 32.
Ghana earned their place in the knockout stages after an impressive group campaign under Queiroz. The Black Stars opened with a 1-0 victory over Panama before frustrating England in a goalless draw and finishing the group stage with a narrow 2-1 defeat to Croatia, results that proved enough to secure qualification.
