Thomas Partey is set to play a key role in Ghana’s FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash against Colombia after the Black Stars avoided a return to Canada following the conclusion of the group stage.
Ghana progressed to the knockout rounds as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams despite suffering a 2-1 defeat to Croatia in their final Group L fixture.
The result sent Carlos Queiroz’s side to Kansas City, where they will face Group K winners Colombia for a place in the Round of 16.
The fixture is a significant boost for the Black Stars, as it ensures Partey will be available after the midfielder previously missed Ghana’s opening match against Panama due to legal and travel issues that prevented him from entering Canada.
The formal Arsenal midfielder returned to action against Croatia and is now expected to marshal Ghana’s midfield in one of the country’s biggest matches of the tournament.
Had the Black Stars finished second in Group L, they would have been scheduled to face Portugal in Toronto—a scenario that would once again have ruled Partey out because of the travel restrictions.
Instead, Ghana’s third-place finish has unexpectedly worked in their favour, with the knockout tie taking place in the United States, where Partey is eligible to play.
His return gives head coach Carlos Queiroz one of his most experienced and influential players as Ghana prepare to take on an in-form Colombian side that topped Group K ahead of Portugal.