Ghana kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama, thanks to Caleb Yirenkyi’s stoppage-time winner in Toronto.
The midfielder struck in the 94th minute to hand the Black Stars all three points in their Group L opener after a tense encounter played under difficult weather conditions.
The victory sends Ghana to second place in Group L behind England, who earlier defeated Croatia 4-2 in Dallas.
The build-up to the match was overshadowed by off-field challenges after deputy captain Thomas Partey was denied entry into Canada.
The midfielder’s emergency legal appeal was rejected by a Federal Court judge on Tuesday due to ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom, leaving Ghana without one of its most experienced players.
Despite heavy rain, strong winds and the late setback, thousands of supporters from both nations transformed Toronto Stadium, commercially known as BMO Field, into a vibrant atmosphere.
The opening half produced limited scoring opportunities as both sides struggled to establish rhythm on the slippery surface.
Ghana’s aggressive pressing approach saw Caleb Yirenkyi receive an early yellow card in the 15th minute as the Black Stars sought to disrupt Panama’s attacking build-up.
At halftime, coach Carlos Queiroz made an unexpected adjustment, replacing goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi with Benjamin Asare.
As Panama began exploiting Ghana’s wide areas through combinations involving Michael Amir Murillo and Yoel Bárcenas, the Portuguese tactician introduced fresh legs just before the hour mark.
Kamaldeen Sulemana and Ernest Nuamah were withdrawn in favour of Brandon Thomas-Asante and Abdul Fatawu to add more energy and attacking threat.
Panama also responded with tactical changes, bringing on forwards José Fajardo and Ismael DÃaz as both teams pushed for a breakthrough.
The match became increasingly open during the closing stages, with both sides creating opportunities in search of a decisive goal.
Just when the contest appeared destined for a goalless draw, Ghana produced a dramatic finish.
Four minutes into stoppage time, a swift attacking move exposed Panama’s tiring defence, allowing Yirenkyi to latch onto the ball and fire past goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera.
The goal was briefly subjected to a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review before being confirmed, sparking jubilant celebrations among Ghanaian supporters.
The result provides a significant boost for Ghana, ending a disappointing run that saw the Black Stars lose four of their final five warm-up matches before the tournament.
Ghana will now turn their attention to a crucial Group L showdown against England on June 23 at Exhibition Stadium in Toronto, while Panama must secure a positive result against Croatia to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
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