Ghana Defender Derick Luckassen Scores Historic World Cup Debut Goal

Derick Luckassen, former Maccabi Tel Aviv defender, made history by scoring in his World Cup debut for Ghana during their 2-1 loss to Croatia on June 28, 2026. Playing for the Ghanaian national team known as the Black Stars, Luckassen netted a free-kick goal in the 73rd minute, leveling the score temporarily. The goal was confirmed after a lengthy VAR review for offside suspicion, allowing celebrations to follow.

Luckassen, who currently plays for Cypriot club Pafos and has scored six goals this season, demonstrated his set-piece expertise on the global stage. Despite the goal, Ghana ultimately lost the match. Luckassen and his brother, Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey, made World Cup history as the first pair of brothers to score for two different national teams in the tournament. Both brothers were born in the Netherlands, highlighting a unique family and tournament statistic.

After the game, Luckassen expressed mixed feelings, saying, "It was a very nice feeling, but I am a bit disappointed with the loss." He analyzed Ghana's performance, noting that the team had possession in the first half but lacked effective play, while the second half saw more aggressive pressing and better attacking efforts.

This World Cup appearance also marked the fifth time brothers have played in the 2026 tournament, with six of the ten players involved born in the Netherlands, underscoring the country's influence on international football talent.