Ghana began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in dramatic fashion, defeating Panama 1-0 thanks to a stoppage-time winner from Caleb Yirenkyi in Toronto on Wednesday night.
The Group L encounter appeared destined for a goalless draw until Yirenkyi struck in the 95th minute, finishing from close range after an excellent attacking move involving substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante.
The victory handed the Black Stars all three points and provided the ideal start to their quest for a place in the knockout stages of the tournament.
Head coach Carlos Queiroz named Lawrence Ati Zigi in goal, with Marvin Senaya, Jonas Adjetey, Jerome Opoku and Gideon Mensah forming the defence. Elisha Owusu and Caleb Yirenkyi anchored midfield, while Ernest Nuamah, Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo and Kamaldeen Sulemana led the attack.
Ghana enjoyed more possession and looked the brighter side in the opening stages but struggled to find a way through a disciplined Panama defence.
Panama remained a threat on the counterattack and created several opportunities, forcing Ati Zigi into important saves to keep the match level. Despite chances at both ends, the first half ended goalless.
The contest became increasingly physical after the break as both teams searched for the breakthrough. Panama defender César Blackman was booked in the 72nd minute as tensions rose in a fiercely fought battle.
Seeking a winning goal, Queiroz introduced fresh legs late in the game, including Brandon Thomas-Asante, whose impact proved decisive in the closing moments.
Deep into stoppage time, Thomas-Asante created space and delivered a dangerous ball into the box, where Yirenkyi arrived to calmly tap home and spark jubilant celebrations among Ghana’s players and supporters.
The late winner secured a hard-fought victory, boosting Ghana’s hopes of progressing from Group L. The Black Stars now turn their attention to crucial group-stage matches against England in Boston and Croatia as they continue their pursuit of a place in the World Cup knockout rounds.
