The Black Stars have departed Rhode Island for Philadelphia as Ghana prepare for their decisive FIFA World Cup Group L clash against Croatia on Saturday, with qualification for the Round of 32 hanging in the balance.
The squad held a recovery session at Bryant University on Wednesday, a day after their disciplined 0-0 draw with England at Gillette Stadium, a result that showcased Ghana's defensive resilience and tactical organisation.
Carlos Queiroz's men now share top spot in Group L with the Three Lions, both on four points after one win and one draw from their opening two matches.
A victory over Croatia would send Ghana into the Round of 32 for the first time since 2010. The team will travel to Philadelphia on Thursday and hold one training session on Friday before facing Croatia at Lincoln Financial Field at 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 28.
Tuesday's result saw Ghana execute a disciplined defensive plan to frustrate England, with goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, centre back Jerome Opoku, and midfielder Kwasi Sibo all earning praise post-match.
Asare, who started in place of the injured Lawrence Ati-Zigi, produced another composed performance, while Opoku marshalled the backline with authority against England's Premier League attack.
Queiroz said after the game that points in this World Cup are "terribly expensive" and dedicated the effort to the fans of Ghana. Sibo added that the team want all three points against Croatia to be leaders in the group.
For Ghana, the equation is simple: win and they are through. A draw may also be enough depending on the outcome of the England-Panama match, but Queiroz and his players have made clear their intention to secure qualification on their own terms.
