Ghana now face a must-win game against the United States in the concluding Group B fixture at the FIFA U-20 World Cup after losing to Spain on Monday.

The Black Satellites lost 1-0 to Spain in a closely-fought encounter but near misses denied Sellas Tetteh's side a share of the spoils.

Ghana need a win against the USA in Thursday’s final group match as the top four third-place finishers will cement places in the knockout round in addition to the top two teams in each of the six groups.

A goal after 13 minutes by Jese for Spain qualified the European champions for the last 16 with a game to spare.

The second half saw an improved Black Satellites. But Ghana's best chance of equalising failed to materialise.

Richmond Yiadom Boakye, who came off the bench in the opening game blazed over after great footwork inside the box.

Frank Acheampong then went close with a header with 20 minutes remaining, while Joseph Duncan forced a good save from the Spanish goalkeeper, Sortres with a half -volley from the edge of the area.