Ghana made a winning start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama in their Group L opener at the BMO Field in Toronto, Canada, on Thursday.
A dramatic stoppage-time goal from 20-year-old Caleb Yirenkyi, after an impressive solo run and assist by substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante, secured all three points for the Black Stars.
Head coach Carlos Queiroz handed goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi the starting role ahead of Benjamin Asare, while the defence comprised Senaye, Jonah Adjetey, Jerome Opoku and Gideon Mensah.
In midfield, Caleb Yirenkyi partnered Elisha Owusu, while captain Jordan Ayew led the attack, supported by Antoine Semenyo and Ernest Nuamah on the flanks.
Panama dominated the opening exchanges and nearly took the lead in the second minute when Cecilio Waterman connected with a cross from Amir Murillo, but Ati-Zigi produced an excellent save to keep the scores level.
Yirenkyi was cautioned in the 16th minute for a reckless challenge as Ghana struggled to impose themselves, with Semenyo seeing little of the ball during a difficult first half.
The Black Stars suffered a setback at the start of the second half when Ati-Zigi was forced off through injury and replaced by Asare, who became the first goalkeeper from the Ghana Premier League to feature in a FIFA World Cup match.
Ghana gradually improved after the interval, with Adjetey’s header well saved before Yirenkyi fired over from close range.
Seeking greater attacking impetus, Queiroz introduced Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Brandon Thomas-Asante, a move that injected pace and creativity into Ghana’s attack.
Thomas-Asante quickly made his presence felt, creating a fine opportunity for Ayew, whose effort narrowly missed connecting with the cross.
The Black Stars were denied a penalty in the 67th minute after Opoku went down inside the area, but Swedish referee Glenn Nyberg waved away the appeals.
Fatawu later won a free-kick on the edge of the penalty area after being fouled by César Blackman, but Adjetey headed Ayew’s delivery wide.
With the match heading towards a draw, Thomas-Asante produced the decisive moment in stoppage time, embarking on a brilliant run into the penalty area before squaring the ball for Yirenkyi, who calmly slotted home to spark jubilant celebrations among the Ghana supporters.
The victory gives Ghana a perfect start in Group L ahead of their second fixture against England on June 27, where a win or draw could secure qualification to the knockout stage.
