Ghana began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama after Caleb Yirenkyi scored a stoppage-time winner at BMO Field in Toronto on Wednesday night.
Just when the Group L contest appeared destined to end in a goalless draw, the Black Stars produced a decisive late counterattack, with Yirenkyi finding the net in the fifth minute of added time to secure all three points.
Panama made the brighter start and nearly took the lead inside two minutes. A dangerous low cross found Cecilio Waterman in space, but Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi reacted brilliantly to deny the forward with an early save.
The Central Americans continued to dominate possession and dictated much of the first half, enjoying lengthy spells on the ball while limiting Ghana’s attacking opportunities. The Black Stars struggled to create openings and failed to register a shot throughout the opening 45 minutes.
Ati-Zigi remained Ghana’s standout performer during the first half, producing several important interventions and bravely dealing with aerial deliveries despite a heavy collision with Carlos Harvey.
The St. Gallen goalkeeper later appeared to suffer a thigh injury and received treatment before continuing. However, he was unable to complete the match and was replaced at the start of the second half by Benjamin Asare, who made his World Cup debut.
Ghana showed greater attacking intent after the break. Defender Jonas Adjetey tested Panama’s goalkeeper with a header, marking Ghana’s first effort on target.
The introduction of Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Brandon Thomas-Asante further lifted the Black Stars, with Fatawu causing problems down the flanks through his pace and direct running. His attacking threat forced Panama defender Cesar Blackman into a booking after a foul near the edge of the penalty area.
Otto Addo’s side continued to push forward and almost found a breakthrough when Antoine Semenyo delivered a dangerous cross across the face of goal, but defender Edgardo Ramos intervened to prevent Jordan Ayew from converting.
Panama also threatened at the other end, with Cristian MartÃnez coming close when his effort rattled the side netting.
As the clock ticked into stoppage time, both teams appeared set to settle for a point. However, Ghana delivered the decisive moment in the 95th minute.
After breaking up a Panama attack, Brandon Thomas-Asante surged down the left flank, skipped past a challenge and drove a low ball into the penalty area. Yirenkyi, who had stepped into the team following Thomas Partey’s absence from the tournament, arrived at the perfect moment to fire home from close range.
The late strike sparked wild celebrations among the Ghana supporters in Toronto and handed the four-time African champions a crucial victory in their opening fixture.
The result puts Ghana in a strong position in Group L, while denying Panama what would have been their first-ever World Cup point.
In the group’s other match, England defeated Croatia 4-2 to move top of the standings.
Ghana will now prepare for a highly anticipated clash against England on June 23, while Panama will look to bounce back when they face Croatia on the same day.
