FIFA's official statistical data, processed through analytics platforms such as Sofascore and FIFA's Training Centre, has identified Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi as the most effective shot-stopper at the recently concluded 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to the report, the St. Gallen goalkeeper ended the tournament having prevented approximately 2.35 goals more than would normally be expected, based on the quality of shots he faced.

He was also the highest-rated player among those who played at least 100 minutes, recording an average rating of 7.21.

The 29-year-old featured for only 135 minutes after starting Ghana's opening group-stage match before an injury forced him off during the team's second game. Benjamin Asare subsequently replaced Ati-Zigi and featured in the remaining matches until Ghana's Round of 32 clash with Colombia.

The Black Stars reached the Round of 32 before their campaign came to an end with a narrow defeat to Colombia.

In a related development, Ghana has climbed eight places to 65th in the latest FIFA rankings following its appearance at the 2026 World Cup.

According to the latest rankings, the Black Stars have moved from 73rd to 65th, marking one of the country's highest positions in recent years.

Ghana currently occupies 14th place among African nations following its World Cup campaign. The Black Stars recorded the second-highest rise in the rankings after Norway, which climbed 12 places from 31st in the previous rankings following its impressive run to the quarter-finals.

World champions Spain have reclaimed the top spot, overtaking Argentina after their 1-0 extra-time victory in the World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium. France and England remain third and fourth respectively, while Brazil and Morocco have each moved up one place to fifth and sixth.

Morocco, which reached the quarter-finals, remains Africa's highest-ranked nation at a record sixth position, followed by Senegal (18th), Egypt (24th), Nigeria (26th), and Algeria (29th).

At the other end of the rankings, Tunisia recorded the biggest drop, falling 12 places to 57th after failing to advance beyond the group stage.

The maiden 48-team World Cup featured a record 104 matches and saw four nations — Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan — make their tournament debuts.

Following an impressive campaign, Mexico climbed four places to 10th in the latest rankings, returning to the top ten for the first time since March 2022.