Ghana enters its World Cup match against Croatia with a remarkable defensive record, having kept clean sheets in its first two games. The Black Stars' ability to frustrate opponents was evident in their nil-nil draw with England, a result that significantly boosted their chances of advancing to the Round of 32.
Under manager Carlos Queiroz, Ghana has prioritized defensive organization, proving to be a formidable opponent without the ball. The team was one of four nations, alongside Spain, Mexico, and Argentina, to not concede a single goal through their initial two matches. This defensive solidity will be put to the test again as they face Croatia on Saturday.
Despite their defensive prowess, Ghana's offensive output has been modest. They required the full 95 minutes to score against Panama and failed to find the net against England. Their expected goals rank 35th in the 48-team field, indicating a need for greater attacking threat. However, the team's strategy under Queiroz often focuses on stifling opponents, with attacking improvements being a secondary concern for now.
Croatia, on the other hand, has shown signs of defensive vulnerability. After a decade characterized by organization and discipline, their backline was exposed by England, and Panama also applied pressure after falling behind. Croatia, needing to avoid defeat to secure a spot in the Round of 32, must address these defensive lapses.
A low-scoring affair is anticipated, with both teams likely to adopt a cautious approach until a goal is scored. The betting market reflects this expectation, with odds favoring an under 2.5 goals outcome. Analysts suggest that a draw could be a plausible result in a match where both teams prioritize defensive stability.