'The unexpected star' - Media react to Newcastle target’s performance vs Ghana
Luis Suarez received heavy praise from the media after his exceptional performance from the bench in Colombia’s 1-0 World Cup victory over Ghana.
The Sporting CP striker has been heavily linked to Newcastle United in recent months and was vital to the South American nation reaching the round of 16.
The 28-year-old would get the assist for Jhon Arias’ late winner against the West African side to ensure their progress into the tournament.
As a result, the media has been full of praise for the striker, labelling him as the “unexpected star” of the show against Ghana.
Suarez had started the first two matches of the 2026 World Cup but fell onto the bench after failing to find the net.
However, his quality was on show on Saturday as he ensured that Colombia would be in the next round of the cup.
Luis Suarez ‘unexpected Colombian star’ vs Ghana
Suarez came into the tournament on fine form.
The striker netted 28 goals in Liga Portugal last season for Sporting CP and picked up six assists in 32 matches.
This caught the attention of Newcastle, who are desperate for a new striker after the struggles of Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade.
If any Magpies officials were watching Colombia’s win over Ghana, they would no doubt be pleased with what they saw.
Suarez’s impact from the bench was heavily praised by ESPN, who gave the attacker a seven rating, before writing: “The unexpected star of the night. He started on the bench and came on for the injured Cordoba.
“He orchestrated the play that led to Jhon Arias' cross and goal. He battled with the centre-backs and pivoted perfectly on several occasions.”
How good was Suarez vs Ghana?
According to Fotmob on 4 July, Suarez had an excellent game from the bench against Ghana.
Overall, he managed to produce a 0.06 xG, a 0.13 xA, complete 19 passes, create one big chance, have three touches in the opposition box and complete three tackles in just eight minutes.
Suarez certainly stepped up when Colombia needed it, and now they will face Switzerland in the round of 16 on Tuesday where he will hoped to be rewarded with this display with a start against the European nation.
However, it remains to be seen if Newcastle will make a move for the striker once the tournament is over, as the club looks to finally fix its attacking woes ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.