Ghana suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Croatia in their final Group L clash despite a spirited second-half fightback that saw debutant Luckassen score his first goal for the Black Stars.
Croatia took control of the contest early and nearly opened the scoring in the 17th minute when Nikola Vlašić unleashed a powerful drive that crashed against the post with Ghana goalkeeper Benjamin Asare beaten.
The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 31st minute. Petar Sučić finished off a well-worked move by firing a low shot beyond the reach of Asare after being set up by Mateo Kovačić. The strike proved to be the only goal of an entertaining first half.
Ghana responded positively before the interval, with Antoine Semenyo coming closest to restoring parity, but his effort rolled agonisingly wide of the post. Croatia enjoyed a slight edge in possession with 54 percent to Ghana’s 46 percent. Asare was called into action once, while the Croatian goalkeeper remained largely untested during the opening 45 minutes.
Seeking a way back into the game, Ghana made changes after the restart, introducing Fatawu Issahaku for Elisha Owusu. The winger immediately injected pace into the attack and produced a dangerous run before delivering a teasing pass across the penalty area, but none of his teammates could apply the finishing touch.
The Black Stars finally found their reward in the 74th minute. Substitute Ernest Nuamah, who had replaced Kamaldeen Sulemana, whipped in a well-drilled cross that was met brilliantly by Luckassen, who powered home the equaliser. It marked a dream debut for the defender, scoring his first goal in his first appearance for Ghana.
However, Croatia restored their advantage seven minutes later. After earning their first shot opportunity of the second half through a corner, Luka Modrić delivered a pinpoint cross into the penalty area, where Vlašić rose highest to head home and make it 2-1.
The result leaves Ghana remaining in the United States for the next phase of the competition, while Croatia will travel to Canada for their Round of 32 fixture.
