Jerome Opoku
CB
Ball-Playing Centre Back
Oct 14, 1998 (27)
Left
6'6"
174 lb
Completes three clearances
Opoku registered one tackle (zero won) and three clearances in Friday's 1-0 defeat to Colombia.
Analysis: Opoku closed out his World Cup campaign with three clearances, a tackle, and two recoveries during Ghana's 1-0 loss to Colombia on Friday. Across his three tournament appearances, he produced two chances created, won 12 duels, made three tackles, and recorded 15 clearances while helping Ghana secure two clean sheets.
Starting to face Colombia
Opuku (groin) is in the starting XI for Friday's match against Colombia.
Analysis: Opuku had to miss the last game after some concerns of a groin injury, but is back for the knockouts, as the defender earns a spot in the starting XI. This comes after he started in their first two group stage matches, a major addition for the team. He will need to stand tall against a Colombian team with stars in their attack, helping to clean sheets in both appearances this tournament.
In contention for Colombia clash
Opoku (groin) is expected to return to team training and is in contention for the match against Colombia after missing the last group stage game as a precaution, according to Henry Asante, the Director of Communications for Ghana , per Gary Al-Smith. "Yes, Jerome is back on the pitch. he was on the field today. He should be integrated hopefully tomorrow and we'll be in contention for the match."
Analysis: Opoku sat out Ghana's last group stage game as a precautionary measure due to a groin issue, a notable absence given he had been one of the team's best players across the opening two fixtures. He has since returned to the pitch and is on course to rejoin team training, putting him in contention for the Colombia match, with a starting berth available to him if he comes through fully fit.
Plays full game
Opoku recorded one tackle (one won), five clearances and one interception in Tuesday's 0-0 draw against England.
Analysis: Opoku delivered another assured display at the heart of Ghana's defence, contributing five clearances, an interception and a block while winning four of his six ground duels. He was calm in possession and completed 73 percent of his passes, and consistently helped Ghana maintain their defensive shape against England's relentless attacks.
Starting Wednesday
Opoku (undisclosed) is in the starting XI for Wednesday's clash with Panama.
Analysis: Opoku is back in the starting XI for Wednesday's clash. He overcame a knock to return to full training and is now fit and available once more. The defender slots straight back into the starting XI, where he should play a substantial role throughout the tournament.
Back in full training
Opoku (undisclosed) returned to full training on Monday, confirming his recovery from the knock that forced him off as a precaution during the 1-1 draw against Wales, the federation posted.
Analysis: Opoku had been monitored closely by the coaching staff following the early substitution, but his return to collective sessions is a clean bill of health heading into Ghana's World Cup campaign. The defender is now fully available for coach Carlos Queiroz as the Black Stars prepare for their tournament opener.
Substituted as precaution
Opoku (undisclosed) was replaced in the 76th minute of Tuesday's 1-1 draw against Wales as a precautionary measure after picking up an apparent knock, with the coaching staff opting not to take any risks despite the defender insisting he could continue, according to Ashes Gyamera.
Analysis: Opoku's condition will be assessed over the coming days before any further clarity emerges on his availability for Ghana's World Cup campaign. Abdul Mumin came on to replace him, and the coaching staff will be monitoring Opoku closely ahead of the tournament opener given his importance to the Black Stars' defensive setup.
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