Black Stars goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi has revealed that he has no favourite to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, choosing instead to remain neutral as the tournament enters its decisive stages.
With only four teams left in the race for football’s biggest prize, the Ghana international says he is simply looking forward to watching high-quality matches and wishes each of the remaining nations the very best.
Ati-Zigi made his comments during an interview with Sporty FM after Ghana’s World Cup journey came to an end in the Round of 32. Although disappointed by the Black Stars’ early exit, the St. Gallen goalkeeper has continued to follow the competition and is eager to see which nation eventually lifts the famous trophy.
Unlike many supporters who have openly backed their preferred teams, the experienced shot-stopper insists he has no emotional attachment to any of the semi-finalists.
Ati-Zigi remains neutral
Asked to predict who would be crowned world champions, the Ghana goalkeeper avoided naming a favourite. Instead, he said every remaining team deserves credit for reaching the final four and hopes the eventual winners earn the title on merit.
“I don’t have a favourite in the World Cup. Whoever wins, good luck to them.”
His response reflects the respect many professional footballers have for elite international competition, where the smallest details often determine who progresses and who goes home.
With the standard of football increasing throughout the knockout rounds, Ati-Zigi believes every team still involved has shown enough quality to deserve its place among the tournament’s final four.
Historic semi-final line-up
This year’s World Cup has already made history before a ball has even been kicked in the semi-finals. For the first time since FIFA introduced the men’s world rankings in 1992, the four highest-ranked nations entering a World Cup have all reached the last four of the competition.
Argentina arrived at the tournament as the world’s number one-ranked side, while Spain entered as second, France third and England fourth.
Their progress has produced one of the strongest semi-final line-ups in World Cup history, setting the stage for two heavyweight clashes featuring some of the biggest stars in world football.
It is also a reflection of the consistency shown by each nation over recent years, with all four countries combining outstanding talent, tactical quality and impressive tournament experience.
Two mouthwatering semi-finals await
The first semi-final will see France face Spain in what promises to be an entertaining contest between two European powerhouses.
Both teams have impressed throughout the tournament with their attacking football and defensive organisation, making the encounter one of the most anticipated matches of the competition.
The following day, England and Argentina will renew one of international football’s most famous rivalries.
Meetings between the two nations have produced unforgettable moments over several decades, adding extra intrigue to an already massive occasion.
With a place in the World Cup final at stake, both teams will be determined to continue their impressive runs and move one step closer to lifting the trophy.
The winners of those two semi-finals will meet in the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19, where a new world champion will either be crowned or Argentina will successfully defend their title.
Ati-Zigi impressed despite Ghana’s exit
Although Ghana did not progress beyond the Round of 32, Ati-Zigi emerged from the tournament with his reputation enhanced.
The St. Gallen goalkeeper produced several impressive performances during the competition and demonstrated why he remains one of the Black Stars’ most dependable players.
After recovering from an injury setback, he returned to the starting lineup for Ghana’s knockout match against Colombia and delivered one of his best performances of the tournament.
He made a series of important saves to keep Ghana in the contest despite Colombia dominating long spells of possession and creating several dangerous opportunities.
Unfortunately for the Black Stars, Jhon Arias’ early goal proved enough to separate the two sides, ending Ghana’s hopes of progressing further in the competition.
Despite the disappointment, Ati-Zigi received praise from supporters and football analysts for his composure, shot-stopping ability and leadership throughout the tournament.
Ghana already looking ahead
With the World Cup now behind them, Ghana’s attention has shifted toward the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Black Stars will be aiming to secure qualification after missing the previous AFCON tournament, a setback that has increased the importance of the upcoming campaign.
Ati-Zigi has already expressed confidence in the current squad, describing the team as young, ambitious and capable of competing with Africa’s best.
He believes the experience gained during the World Cup will benefit the players as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
The goalkeeper has also backed the Black Stars to qualify for the tournament and believes the team has enough quality to make a strong impression if they reach the finals.
A fan of football first
While many players naturally support particular countries once their own nations have been eliminated, Ati-Zigi’s comments suggest he is simply enjoying the spectacle as a football fan.
With four of the world’s strongest teams remaining in the competition, supporters across the globe are expected to witness two high-quality semi-finals featuring some of the finest players in the game.
For the Ghana international, however, the outcome is not what matters most. Rather than predicting a champion or backing one nation over another, Lawrence Ati-Zigi is content to sit back, enjoy the football and congratulate whichever team proves to be the best when the final whistle blows on July 19.
His neutral stance reflects the respect he has for every remaining contender, recognising that each has earned its place in what promises to be a memorable conclusion to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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