Black Stars defender Kojo Oppong Peprah has been ruled out of Saturday’s World Cup knockout clash against Colombia after suffering an injury in training, Ghana Soccernet reports.

The 22-year-old, who has become a fan favourite despite limited minutes, will miss the crucial Round of 32 fixture after scans confirmed he cannot recover in time.

Peprah made his Ghana debut under then-coach Otto Addo in a friendly against Germany – a match Ghana lost, but one where the young defender earned praise as one of the few bright spots.

He made the World Cup squad and had brief but memorable appearances: just three minutes against England, where he produced a heroic goal-line clearance with his head in the dying moments, and a full second half in the final group game against Croatia.

His absence is a significant blow for coach Carlos Queiroz, who now faces a defensive reshuffle ahead of the Colombia showdown. Peprah’s mobility and fearless defending were seen as key assets against Colombia’s dangerous attack.

The Black Stars will now turn to other options as they prepare for Monday’s knockout tie.

Jerome Opoku, who has hugely impressed in the tournament after the first two games, was a critical omission in Ghana’s third game, having sustained a knock prior. He is, however, expected to return for the crucial knockout encounter, while Lawrence Ati Zigi, who started in goal in the first game against Panama, has also been declared fit by FA officials.

Peprah is expected to stay with the squad to support his teammates from the sidelines.