Ghana began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama after Caleb Yirenkyi struck deep into stoppage time to secure all three points in Toronto.
The midfielder scored in the fifth minute of added time at BMO Field, capping a late counterattack and handing the Black Stars a crucial opening win in Group L.
Panama started brightly and nearly took the lead within two minutes when a low cross found Cecilio Waterman, whose effort was brilliantly saved by Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi.
The Central Americans controlled much of the first half, enjoying long spells of possession and limiting Ghana’s attacking threat. At one stage, Panama held 65 per cent of the ball while the Black Stars struggled to create meaningful opportunities.
Ati-Zigi was called into action several times and also endured a heavy collision with Carlos Harvey while dealing with a cross.
Ghana failed to register a shot during the opening half as Panama looked the more dangerous side.
The Black Stars suffered a setback shortly after the break when Ati-Zigi, who had appeared to be struggling with a thigh injury, was unable to continue.
Benjamin Asare replaced him at halftime, making his major tournament debut for Ghana.
The substitution appeared to spark an improvement in Ghana’s performance as the Black Stars began to play with greater urgency.
Ghana’s first effort on target came through Jonas Adjetey, whose header failed to seriously test the Panama goalkeeper.
Substitutes Abdul Fatawu and Brandon Thomas-Asante injected energy into the attack, with Fatawu’s direct running causing problems for Panama’s defence.
The winger’s pace forced Cesar Blackman into a booking after drawing a foul near the edge of the penalty area.
Antoine Semenyo later delivered a dangerous cross towards Jordan Ayew, but Panama defender Edgardo Ramos intervened at the vital moment to clear the danger.
Panama also threatened in the second half, with Cristian Martinez firing into the side netting as both teams searched for a breakthrough.
With the game seemingly heading for a draw, Ghana struck in devastating fashion.
A Panama attack broke down deep into stoppage time and the Black Stars launched a swift counterattack through Brandon Thomas-Asante.
The striker surged down the left flank, evaded a sliding challenge and drilled a low cross into the penalty area.
Yirenkyi, who started in midfield following Thomas Partey’s absence, arrived at the perfect moment and finished from close range in the 90+5th minute.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among Ghana’s players and supporters and secured a priceless victory in their opening match of the tournament.
The result leaves Ghana well placed in Group L after the opening round of fixtures.
In the group’s other match, England defeated Croatia 4-2 to move top of the standings.
The Black Stars will now turn their attention to a crucial clash against England on June 23, while Panama will seek to bounce back when they face Croatia.
