World Cup 2026: Ghana to face Portugal if standings hold

Ghana could be heading for a blockbuster Round of 32 clash with Portugal if the current World Cup standings remain unchanged. Following their impressive goalless draw against England, the Black Stars sat second in Group L with four points from two matches, level with the Three Lions but behind on goal difference.

In Group K, Portugal were also second after collecting four points from their opening two games. Roberto Martinez's side thrashed Uzbekistan 5-0 before Colombia edged DR Congo 1-0 to move top of the group. If both groups finish as they currently stand, Ghana and Portugal would meet in the Round of 32 on July 3 in Toronto, Canada.

The potential tie would revive memories of Ghana's previous World Cup meetings with Portugal, which included their first encounter at the 2014 tournament in Brazil, where Portugal claimed a 2-1 victory amidst off-field turmoil in the Black Stars camp. They met again at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, with Portugal edging a thrilling 3-2 contest after Cristiano Ronaldo converted a controversial penalty that sparked fierce debate among Ghanaian supporters and pundits.

This time, the stakes would be significantly higher, with a place in the Round of 16 on the line. For Ghana, facing Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal would represent one of the glamour ties of the knockout stage. Portugal boasted a squad packed with elite talent and were among the favorites to go deep into the tournament.

However, there is another subplot that could dominate discussion if the matchup becomes a reality. The game would be played in Toronto, where Thomas Partey was unable to participate in Ghana's opening World Cup match due to being denied entry into the country because of his ongoing legal case in the United Kingdom. Should the match remain in Canada, questions would inevitably arise about the Black Stars' availability of one of their most experienced players.

Before then, Ghana still has work to do. Carlos Queiroz's side faces Croatia in their final Group L fixture, knowing a positive result could secure qualification and potentially even open the door to first place. But as things stand, one of the most intriguing Round of 32 ties is beginning to take shape: Ghana versus Portugal. Africa against Europe. A place in the last 16 at stake.