Arias strike sends Colombia into last 16 with victory over Ghana

Jhon Arias scores the only goal of the game as Colombia become the last team to book their place in the last 16 following a 1-0 win over Ghana in Kansas City.

Colombia secured their spot in the knockout stages of the Women's World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ghana at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City on Tuesday. Jhon Arias's second-half strike was enough to seal the win, making Colombia the final team to qualify for the round of 16. The match was a winner-takes-all affair in Group H, with Colombia needing a win to guarantee progression after a draw and a win in their first two games, while Ghana had three points from a win and a loss. Both teams started cautiously, but Colombia gradually took control of possession, with Linda Caicedo and Catalina Usme causing problems for the Ghanaian defense. Ghana, however, looked dangerous on the counter-attack. In the 28th minute, Evelyn Badu broke free down the left and crossed for Priscilla Adjei, whose shot was blocked by Colombian defender Daniela Arias. The first half ended goalless, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances. Colombia came out stronger after the break. In the 55th minute, they came close when a corner was headed goalward by Daniela Arias, but Ghana's Grace Asantewaa cleared off the line. The breakthrough finally came in the 68th minute. Leicy Santos played a perfectly weighted through ball to Jhon Arias, who timed her run to perfection, rounded the goalkeeper, and slotted into the empty net. Ghana pushed for an equalizer, and almost found it in the 75th minute when substitute Alice Kusi's header was brilliantly saved by Colombian goalkeeper Catalina Pérez. In the 82nd minute, Ghana captain Elizabeth Addo struck a free kick that hit the crossbar. Colombia held on for the final minutes to secure the win. The victory means Colombia top Group H with seven points, while Ghana finish third with three points and are eliminated. Colombia will face the runner-up of Group E in the round of 16. Colombia coach Nelson Abadia praised his team's resilience: "I am very proud of the players. They showed great character and tactical discipline. We knew it would be tough, but we believed in ourselves. Now we look forward to the next challenge." Ghana coach Nora Hauptle was disappointed but proud: "We gave everything, but football can be cruel. We had our chances but couldn't take them. The players have done well, and I hope they learn from this experience."

Arias strike sends Colombia into last 16 with victory over Ghana

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