Colombia Beats Ghana 1-0, Enters World Cup Last 16

Colombia defeated Ghana 1-0 in Kansas City on Friday to reach the World Cup Round of 16. Jhon Arias scored the only goal in the 14th minute by tapping in a cross from substitute Luis Suarez.

Suarez had entered early after starting forward Jhon Cordoba left with an apparent groin injury just minutes into the match. His introduction proved decisive as he set up Arias for the winner.

Colombia dominated possession and defended solidly, denying Ghana a single shot on target all night. Luis Diaz had a goal ruled out for offside and later saw a close-range effort saved by Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi, who made seven saves overall.

Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz said his team struggled to keep pace with Colombia's passing and movement, which affected their fitness and ability to win back the ball.

This marks Colombia's second-ever World Cup knockout win and first since 2014. The team, unbeaten through the group stage against Portugal, Uzbekistan and DR Congo, now moves on to face Switzerland on Tuesday in Vancouver for a quarterfinal spot.

Thousands of Colombian fans filled Arrowhead Stadium with turning the U.S. venue into a virtual home game with yellow jerseys and constant chanting throughout the sweltering 88-degree evening.