Colombia booked the final place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after defeating Ghana 1-0 in a hard-fought Round of 32 encounter in Kansas City, ending the Black Stars' campaign and leaving Africa with only two teams in the knockout stage.
Arias arrived unmarked at the back post to volley home after Ghana defender Alidu Seidu failed to track his run.
The victory sets up a last-16 clash between Colombia and Switzerland as the South Americans continue their impressive run at the tournament.
Both sides suffered early injury setbacks, with Colombia losing striker Jhon Cordoba to a groin injury, forcing Luis Suarez into the game. Ghana also made an early change after defender Marvin Senaya picked up a hamstring injury and was replaced by Alidu Seidu.
Ghana's best chances came through Thomas Partey, whose long-range effort narrowly missed the target, while Antoine Semenyo saw his strike deflected over the crossbar.
Colombia, however, created the clearer opportunities throughout the contest. Before halftime, Luis Diaz and Luis Suarez both came close to doubling the lead, while Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Zigi produced an excellent save to deny Johan Mojica.
After the break, Colombia continued to dominate possession and chances. Richard Rios, Gustavo Puerta and Diaz all threatened, while Diaz also had a goal ruled out for offside before Zigi denied him again in a one-on-one situation.
Despite Zigi's impressive performance in goal, Ghana struggled to trouble the Colombian defence and finished the match without registering a single shot on target.
With the victory, Colombia complete the Round of 16 lineup and will now face Switzerland for a place in the quarter-finals, while Ghana's World Cup campaign comes to an end.
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