Ati-Zigi responds to criticisms of Asare being a better communicator

Black Stars goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi has refuted claims that he struggles to communicate effectively with defenders to organise them during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The tournament was a stage for the FC St. Gallen 1879 shot-stopper, who started Ghana’s opening game against Panama, made crucial saves, and was substituted at halftime due to injury, with Benjamin Asare taking over.

Ati-Zigi later returned for the Round of 32 clash against Colombia, where Ghana conceded a goal that led to their elimination. This sparked criticism that he lacked the ability to organise his backline, leaving gaps for opponents to exploit, unlike Asare.

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Responding to the claims, Ati-Zigi clarified that he communicates regularly with defenders during matches to maintain organisation and prevent attacks.

He emphasised that his main focus is making saves to keep the team from conceding, and that he is unfazed by public opinion about his performance.

“Communication is a key factor in the game. I don’t think talking to my defenders is something I don’t do. That’s the narrative, but everyone has their opinion. Criticism is part of the game, but it doesn’t really change anything about my performance. As a goalkeeper, your priority is to save goals,” he said in an interview with Sporty FM upon his arrival in Ghana from the World Cup.

Ati-Zigi also dismissed claims that he is too dramatic when making saves, insisting that it is simply his natural reaction in such situations.

“Goalkeeping is all about reactions. Every goalkeeper has his own style. For me, I don’t really think I am dramatic when I make a save. My priority is to save,” he added.

Read the tweets below:

2. On criticism that Benjamin Asare is a "better communicator" with defenders than he is. pic.twitter.com/IjaTGO6lul

— Gary Al-Smith (@garyalsmith) July 13, 2026

3. On observation that he is too dramatic and doesn't keep things simple. pic.twitter.com/ZbpBlc9KwR

— Gary Al-Smith (@garyalsmith) July 13, 2026