Jhon Arias nets decisive World Cup goal for Colombia, hailed as 'Colombian Pelé

Colombian striker Jhon Arias, standing 168 cm tall and nicknamed “Colombian Pelé,” scored what he described as the most important goal of his career during the 2026 World Cup match against Ghana in Kansas City. The strike secured Colombia’s advance to the quarter‑finals.

Arias had left the physically demanding English Premier League after a half‑season with Wolverhampton, where he made only two league appearances and the club paid a £21 million transfer fee, later profiting £6 million on his sale. He returned to Brazil, joining Palmeiras, a move that revived his form. Previously, he helped Fluminense win the 2023 Copa Libertadores and earned a silver medal with Colombia at the 2024 South American championship.

Although not a prolific scorer in qualifiers, Arias’s dribbling and creativity create chances for teammates. His goal against Ghana came from a Suarez‑provided cross that landed on his foot, avoiding aerial battles due to his stature. The win will see Colombia face Switzerland in Vancouver later in the tournament.