Colombia secured the final place in the World Cup last 16 with a deserved 1-0 victory over Ghana as Jhon Arias’ first-half strike proved enough to seal qualification.
The South Americans dominated the Round of 32 clash at Arrowhead Stadium, registering eight shots on target while restricting Ghana to none throughout the match.
Arias scored the decisive goal in the 14th minute after Luis Suarez, who had replaced the injured Jhon Cordoba early in the game, battled down the right before delivering a cross for the unmarked midfielder to finish.
Ghana had threatened in the opening minute when Thomas Partey fired narrowly wide, but the Black Stars struggled to create further opportunities and failed to register a single shot on target.
Both teams were forced into early substitutions after injuries. Cordoba was replaced by Suarez for Colombia, while Marvin Senaya made way for Alidu Seidu for Ghana.
Colombia controlled possession for long spells and created several chances to extend their lead. Luis Diaz missed a clear opportunity before half-time, while Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi produced an excellent save to deny Johan Mojica.
The South Americans continued to waste chances after the break. Diaz had a goal ruled out for offside and later shot straight at Zigi, while Juan Quintero also went close.
Despite their wastefulness in front of goal, Colombia comfortably held on to book a last-16 clash with Switzerland in Vancouver, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake.
Named Player of the Match, Diaz said Colombia were growing stronger with every game but admitted they needed to improve their finishing.
“We’re just missing that little detail of finishing a bit better and staying composed. I think we played a very solid game,” he said.
The Bayern Munich winger also acknowledged his own missed opportunities.”I had chances to convert. That confidence I want to have isn’t quite at 100 percent yet.
“I’m trying to improve game by game. I felt much better in today’s match than in the previous one, without a doubt.”
