Ghana began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama, thanks to a dramatic stoppage-time goal from debutant Caleb Yirenkyi at BMO Field on Wednesday night.
The young midfielder marked his first-ever World Cup appearance in memorable fashion, scoring the winning goal in the 94th minute to hand the Black Stars three valuable points in their opening Group L match.
Coach Carlos Queiroz named a side that blended youth and experience, with Marvin Senaya, Caleb Yirenkyi, Jonas Adjetey, Jerome Opoku and Ernest Nuamah all included in the starting lineup. Captain Jordan Ayew led the team in his third FIFA World Cup appearance.
The first half was closely contested, with both teams struggling to create clear scoring opportunities. Ghana gradually gained control after the break, using the pace of Ernest Nuamah and Antoine Semenyo on the wings to put pressure on the Panamanian defence.
Panama threatened on several occasions and nearly broke the deadlock in the 78th minute. However, substitute goalkeeper Benjamin Asare came to Ghana’s rescue with an excellent save to deny Ismael Díaz and keep the scores level.
As the game appeared headed for a draw, Ghana launched one final attack deep into stoppage time. The move started in midfield before the ball found Yirenkyi inside the penalty area. The debutant kept his composure and fired a low shot beyond Panama goalkeeper Luis Mejía to spark celebrations among the Ghanaian players and supporters.
The Black Stars also impressed defensively, with Senaya, Adjetey, Opoku and Gideon Mensah producing a disciplined performance to secure a clean sheet.
Second-half substitutes Brandon Thomas-Asante, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Kwasi Sibo and Kwabena Adu provided fresh energy and played key roles in helping Ghana maintain their intensity in the closing stages.
The victory places Ghana second in Group L and provides a strong foundation for the challenges ahead. The Black Stars will now turn their attention to a crucial clash against England in Boston on June 23, before concluding their group-stage campaign against Croatia.
