Ghana have made four changes to the starting lineup that secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama, with Thomas Partey returning from his visa-enforced absence to face England in the crucial Group L clash at the Gillette Stadium tonight.
The Villarreal midfielder, who was denied entry into Canada for the tournament opener, has been reinstated to the starting eleven alongside Kwasi Sibo, Inaki Williams, and goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, who replaces the injured Lawrence Ati-Zigi.
Partey's return provides a significant boost to the Black Stars' midfield, which struggled for control against Panama before Caleb Yirenkyi's late winner. The former Arsenal midfielder brings experience, composure, and defensive solidity to a Ghanaian engine room that will need to contend with England's formidable attacking options, including captain Harry Kane and the in-form Jude Bellingham.
Inaki Williams, the Athletic Bilbao forward, also comes into the side as Ghana look to add pace and directness to their attack. The Spain-born forward, who switched his international allegiance to Ghana, will be expected to provide a threat on the counter-attack alongside Antoine Semenyo and captain Jordan Ayew.
Benjamin Asare's inclusion in goal follows Lawrence Ati-Zigi's groin injury sustained against Panama. The Hearts of Oak goalkeeper, who stepped in for his World Cup debut during the second half of that match, will now start in one of the biggest games of his career.
Carlos Queiroz has opted for Kwasi Sibo in midfield, pairing the 24-year-old with Partey and Yirenkyi, as Ghana look to establish control in the middle of the park against an England side that showcased their attacking prowess with a 4-2 victory over Croatia.
Meanwhile, England head coach Thomas Tuchel has made two changes to his starting lineup, with Marc Guehi replacing John Stones and Djed Spence coming in for Nico O'Reilly. Stones' omission is likely a case of Tuchel managing the Manchester City defender's minutes following his limited club action last season.
The winner of Tuesday's match at the Gillette Stadium will take control of Group L, with both teams sitting on three points after their opening victories. Kickoff is scheduled for 8PM GMT, with Ghana aiming to deliver a statement result against one of the tournament favourites.
