World Cup 2026: Ghana set for Portugal showdown as things stand

Ghana could be heading for a blockbuster Round of 32 clash with Portugal if the current World Cup standings remain unchanged.Following their impressive goalless draw against England, the Black Stars sit second in Group L with four points from two matches, level with the Three Lions but behind on goal difference.Over in Group K, Portugal are also second after collecting four points from their opening two games.

Roberto Martinez's side thrashed Uzbekistan 5-0 before Colombia edged DR Congo 1-0 to move top of the group.If both groups finish as they currently stand, Ghana and Portugal would meet in the Round of 32 on July 3 in Toronto, Canada.The potential tie would revive memories of Ghana's previous World Cup meetings with Portugal.

The two nations first met at the 2014 tournament in Brazil, where Portugal claimed a 2-1 victory in a match overshadowed by off-field turmoil in the Black Stars camp.They met again at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, with Portugal edging a thrilling 3-2 contest after Cristiano Ronaldo converted a highly controversial penalty that sparked fierce debate among Ghanaian supporters and pundits.

Portugal ultimately advanced from the group while Ghana exited at the first hurdle.This time, the stakes would be significantly higher, with a place in the Round of 16 on the line.For Ghana, the prospect of facing Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal would represent one of the glamour ties of the knockout stage.

Portugal boast a squad packed with elite talent and are among the favourites to go deep into the tournament.However, there is another subplot that could dominate discussion if the matchup becomes reality.The game would be played in Toronto, the Canadian city where Thomas Partey was unable to participate in Ghana's opening World Cup match after being denied entry into the country because of his ongoing legal case in the United Kingdom.Should the match remain in Canada, questions would inevitably be asked about whether the Black Stars could again be without one of their most experienced players.Before then, Ghana still have work to do.Carlos Queiroz's side face Croatia in their final Group L fixture, knowing a positive result could secure qualification and potentially even open the door to first place.But as things stand, one of the most intriguing Round of 32 ties is beginning to take shape.Ghana versus Portugal.

A place in the last 16 at stake.