Ghana kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in dramatic fashion, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama thanks to a stoppage-time goal from Caleb Yirenkyi at BMO Field in Toronto.
Just as the Group L encounter appeared destined to end in a goalless draw, the Black Stars produced a decisive late counterattack in the fifth minute of added time, with Yirenkyi calmly slotting home to hand Ghana all three points and spark wild celebrations among supporters.
Panama started brightly and nearly opened the scoring inside two minutes when Cecilio Waterman found space in the penalty area. However, Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi reacted superbly to deny the forward with a crucial early save.
The Central Americans controlled much of the first half, dominating possession and limiting Ghana’s attacking opportunities. The Black Stars struggled to gain momentum and failed to register a single shot throughout the opening 45 minutes.
Ati-Zigi remained Ghana’s standout performer before halftime, producing several important interventions and bravely dealing with aerial threats despite a heavy collision with Carlos Harvey. The goalkeeper later appeared to suffer a thigh injury and received treatment before continuing.
However, he was unable to continue after the break and was replaced by Benjamin Asare, who made his FIFA World Cup debut.
Ghana looked much improved in the second half and showed greater attacking intent. Defender Jonas Adjetey forced Panama’s goalkeeper into action with a header, registering Ghana’s first effort on target.
The introduction of Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Brandon Thomas-Asante injected fresh energy into the Black Stars’ attack. Fatawu’s pace and direct running consistently troubled the Panama defence, eventually forcing Cesar Blackman into a booking.
Ghana continued to push for a breakthrough, with Antoine Semenyo creating a dangerous opportunity that was cleared before Jordan Ayew could apply the finishing touch.
Panama also threatened during the closing stages, with Cristian Martínez coming close when his effort struck the side netting.
With the match heading for a draw, Ghana delivered the decisive moment in the 95th minute. After winning possession deep inside their own half, Thomas-Asante surged down the left flank before driving a low cross into the box. Yirenkyi timed his run perfectly and fired home from close range to secure a memorable victory for the four-time African champions.
The win puts Ghana in a strong position in Group L as they prepare for a blockbuster showdown with England national football team on June 23. Panama, meanwhile, will seek their first points of the tournament when they face Croatia national football team.
In the group’s other fixture, England defeated Croatia 4-2 to move to the top of the standings. Ghana now sit level on points and will be aiming to build on their dramatic opening victory when they take on the Three Lions.
Source: Wesleyannews.com
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