Black Stars Player Ratings: Luckassen shines but midfield falters in Croatia defeat

Ghana’s hopes of finishing top of Group L ended in heartbreak as Nikola Vlasic struck a late winner to hand Croatia a 2-1 victory in the Black Stars’ final group game at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Saturday, June 27, 2026.

Despite the defeat, Carlos Queiroz’s side progressed to the Round of 32 after collecting four points from their three group matches, capping an impressive group-stage campaign that few predicted before the tournament.

Benjamin Asare – 5/10

The goalkeeper produced several decent saves to keep Ghana in the contest but will be disappointed with both goals he conceded, as he could have done better on each occasion.

Marvin Senaya – 5/10

A difficult afternoon for the right-back, who was constantly pinned back by Croatia’s attacks and never looked like the energetic outlet he has been throughout the tournament.

Ghana falls 2-1 to Croatia despite booking round of 32 spot

Jonas Adjetey – 5.5/10

Put in a respectable defensive shift and dealt with several dangerous situations, but it was not enough to keep Croatia at bay when it mattered most.

Derrick Luckassen – 6/10

Scored Ghana’s equaliser with a composed finish after Ernest Nuamah’s free-kick and battled hard throughout.

However, he could not organise the defence as Croatia snatched the winner.

Gideon Mensah – 4.5/10

Had little influence down the left flank in the opening half but improved after the break, getting forward more often without producing the final delivery.

Elisha Owusu – 4/10

An afternoon to forget as he gave the ball away too frequently and struggled to establish any control in midfield.

Kwasi Sibo – 4/10

Far from the commanding midfielder who impressed against England. His misplaced pass gifted Croatia the corner from which they scored the decisive goal.

Thomas Partey – 5.5/10

Comfortable in possession and rarely looked flustered, but the experienced midfielder failed to provide the attacking spark Ghana needed.

Jordan Ayew – 4.5/10

The captain worked hard but struggled to impose himself on the game and was unable to inspire the Black Stars when they needed leadership most.

Kamaldeen Sulemana – 4/10

Showed flashes of pace and found promising positions, but his decision-making and final ball let him down throughout the contest.

Antoine Semenyo – 4.5/10

Largely isolated in attack and failed to trouble Croatia consistently. His best chance went past the post as frustration summed up his evening.

Abdul Fatawu Issahaku – 6/10

Brought life to Ghana’s attack after coming on, beating defenders with ease and creating dangerous moments. His performance was only blemished by blazing a glorious late opportunity over the bar.

Ernest Nuamah – 6/10

Made an instant impact with his pace and quality, delivering the free-kick that led to Ghana’s equaliser. Drifted out of the game after switching flanks with Fatawu.

Brandon Thomas Asante – 5/10

Added pace and energy to the frontline but was unable to create any clear-cut opportunities against a disciplined Croatian defence.

Caleb Yirenkyi – N/A

Introduced too late to make a meaningful impact and therefore goes unrated.

FKA/VPO

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