Ghana kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama after Caleb Yirenkyi struck deep into stoppage time to hand the Black Stars all three points in Toronto.
The FC Nordsjælland midfielder found the breakthrough in the fifth minute of six minutes added on, sparking wild celebrations among Ghanaian players and supporters after a tense and closely contested Group L encounter.
Panama, meanwhile, were denied what looked set to be their first-ever point at the Mundial.
The victory gives Ghana a winning start to their fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup and marks only the second time the Black Stars have won their opening match at the tournament.
Their previous opening-game victory came at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa when Asamoah Gyan’s penalty secured a 1-0 win over Serbia.
The result also places Ghana second in Group L on three points, level with England, who defeated Croatia 4-2 earlier in the day but occupy top spot courtesy of a superior goal difference.
Panama Dominate First Half
Panama were the brighter side during the opening 45 minutes and looked more likely to break the deadlock as they repeatedly tested Ghana’s defence.
The Central Americans enjoyed the better share of possession and created the more dangerous opportunities, forcing goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi into action on several occasions.
Ati Zigi produced a series of important saves to keep the Black Stars in the contest, showing sharp reflexes and commanding presence inside his penalty area whenever Panama threatened.
Ghana struggled to find their rhythm in attack and failed to register a meaningful effort on goal throughout the first half. The Black Stars found it difficult to retain possession in advanced areas as Panama pressed aggressively and controlled large portions of the game.
Despite Panama’s dominance, the score remained goalless at halftime thanks largely to Ati Zigi’s impressive performance between the posts but was replaced due to an injury by Benjamin Asare who made his World Cup debut after the break.
Yirenkyi Delivers in Stoppage Time
The second half saw a noticeable improvement from Ghana as Carlos Queiroz’s side emerged with greater purpose and intensity.
The Black Stars gradually took control of proceedings, enjoying more possession and limiting Panama to fewer clear-cut opportunities. While chances remained scarce at both ends, Ghana looked increasingly capable of finding a decisive moment.
Queiroz introduced fresh legs as the match wore on, and the substitutions helped Ghana maintain pressure during the closing stages especially with the introduction of Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Brandon Thomas-Asante, Kwasi Sibo and Prince Adu Kwabena..
With the contest seemingly heading for a draw, the Black Stars finally found the breakthrough. In the fifth minute of stoppage time, Yirenkyi rose to the occasion, producing the decisive tap in finish from Thomas-Asante’s low cross that sent the Ghana bench into celebration and broke Panamanian hearts.
The goal continued the midfielder’s impressive form heading into the tournament. Yirenkyi had also scored Ghana’s previous goal in the 1-1 international friendly draw against Wales before the start of the World Cup, meaning he has now netted the Black Stars’ last two goals.
For Panama, the defeat was particularly painful. After matching and at times outperforming Ghana for long spells, they appeared on course to secure a historic point before conceding moments from the final whistle.
The victory also represents an important milestone for head coach Carlos Queiroz. The experienced Portuguese manager remains unbeaten since taking charge of the Black Stars and has now recorded his first competitive victory with the national team.
Ghana will now turn their attention to their next Group L fixture against England on June 23 as they seek to strengthen their chances of reaching the knockout stage.
With confidence boosted by a dramatic opening triumph, the Black Stars will hope Yirenkyi’s late winner proves to be the spark for another memorable World Cup campaign.
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