Ghana’s preparations for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Group L encounter against England have received a significant boost, with goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi returning to training following an injury scare in the Black Stars’ opening match against Panama.
According to multiple reports from the Black Stars camp, the experienced shot-stopper took part in training on Friday and is feeling much better after suffering a groin issue during Ghana’s victory over Panama.
Ati-Zigi was forced off at halftime after colliding with a Panama attacker while rushing off his line to make an important save in the first half. The substitution was described as a precautionary measure by the technical and medical teams, who were keen to avoid aggravating the injury.
Although medical scans were scheduled to assess the full extent of the problem and determine whether it was a mild stretch or a minor tear, the goalkeeper’s return to training has raised hopes that he could be available for selection against England.
The timing could not be better for Otto Addo’s side as they prepare to face one of the tournament favourites. England opened their World Cup campaign with an impressive victory and represent Ghana’s toughest challenge in the group stage.
Should Ati-Zigi require additional recovery time, Ghana can take confidence from the form of Benjamin Asare. The Hearts of Oak goalkeeper stepped in after halftime against Panama and delivered an assured performance, helping the Black Stars preserve a clean sheet and secure a valuable result.
For now, however, all indications from camp suggest that Ati-Zigi is on the road to recovery, giving Ghana a welcome fitness boost ahead of a pivotal World Cup showdown with England.
Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of The Accra Daily Mail, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.
