Ghana secured a dramatic 1–0 victory over Panama in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Caleb Yirenkyi scored a late winner in stoppage time in Toronto.
The decisive moment came in the fifth minute of added time when Ghana launched a fast counterattack. Brandon Thomas-Asante carried the ball into the penalty area and delivered a pass across the box, allowing Yirenkyi to tap the ball into the net.
The goal sparked celebrations among Ghana’s players and supporters, but tensions rose immediately afterwards as both teams were involved in a confrontation before the final whistle.
The match was a major battle between two teams expected to compete for third place in Group L. Panama controlled much of the first half, while Ghana improved after the break and took more control of the game.
Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi made important saves early in the match, denying Panama’s Cecilio Waterman and helping keep the game level. However, he was forced off at halftime due to injury.
Ghana struggled offensively in the first half and recorded no shots before the interval, but they responded in the second half and eventually found the winning goal.
The victory gives Ghana a strong start in their fifth World Cup appearance in six tournaments. Their best previous performance came in 2010 when they reached the quarter-finals.
Panama, appearing at only their second World Cup, will look to recover in their next match against Croatia.
Ghana will face tournament favourites England next, while Panama will meet Croatia.
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