Ghana beat Panama 1-0 thanks to Yirenkyi's late winner

Ghana opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in dramatic fashion after Caleb Yirenkyi struck deep into stoppage time to secure a 1-0 victory over Panama in Toronto.

With both sides seemingly heading toward a draw, Brandon Thomas-Asante produced a brilliant run down the left flank before delivering a precise cut-back for Yirenkyi, who calmly converted from close range in the 95th minute to send the Black Stars supporters into celebration.

The result gives Ghana an important three points in Group L ahead of a much tougher challenge against England.

Panama impress despite heartbreak

Panama showed plenty of composure throughout the contest and looked capable of earning the country's first-ever World Cup point. They nearly made the perfect start inside two minutes when Cecilio Waterman's powerful effort forced Lawrence Ati Zigi into an excellent save.

The Central Americans remained disciplined defensively while continuing to threaten on the counterattack against the four-time African champions.

Their best opportunity after the interval fell to Cristian Martínez, whose powerful effort flashed into the side netting with Ghana's defence briefly exposed.

Despite the defeat, Panama produced one of their most competitive World Cup performances and will feel unfortunate to leave empty-handed.

Ghana lose Goalkeeper but hold firm

Ghana suffered an early setback when first-choice goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi picked up an injury after landing awkwardly during the first half. Head coach Carlos Queiroz introduced Benjamin Asare at halftime, and the substitute goalkeeper delivered a composed performance under pressure.

Asare's biggest contribution came late in the match when Panama threw everyone forward for a final set-piece. Goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera joined the attack, and after the ball dropped kindly for Ismael Díaz inside the penalty area, Asare reacted quickly to gather the close-range header and preserve Ghana's clean sheet.

Yirenkyi delivers when it matters most

With the clock ticking into stoppage time, Ghana launched one final attack. Thomas-Asante accelerated down the left wing, skipped past his defender and squared the ball perfectly into the six-yard box where Yirenkyi arrived to apply the simplest of finishes.

The late winner was the latest decisive goal of the tournament so far and could prove hugely important in Ghana's hopes of reaching the knockout stages.

Partey absence leaves midfield questions

The Black Stars were without experienced midfielder Thomas Partey, who was unavailable after being denied entry into Canada because of ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom.

His absence was noticeable as Ghana struggled to control possession for long periods, with Panama matching them physically and tactically across midfield. Carlos Queiroz will hope to have more control and attacking creativity when Ghana face tournament favourites England in their second group fixture.

What comes next?

Ghana now prepare for arguably their toughest group match against England in Boston, knowing another positive result would significantly strengthen their chances of progressing.

Panama remain in search of their first-ever World Cup point and will look to bounce back when they face Croatia in Toronto.

SportsLigue