Yirenkyi Reveals Training Ground Secret Behind Panama Winner
Ghana midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi has revealed that the move which produced his dramatic winner against Panama was no accident, insisting it was the product of extensive work on the training ground.
The FC Nordsjaelland youngster emerged as Ghana’s hero in their opening Group L match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scoring late to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory at BMO Field in Toronto.
In a contest where chances were limited and Panama proved difficult to break down, the Black Stars remained patient before finding the breakthrough in the closing moments through a well-executed attacking move.
Yirenkyi’s decisive strike handed Ghana all three points and gave head coach Carlos Queiroz the perfect start to his World Cup campaign.
Speaking after the match, the midfielder explained that the winning goal came from a pattern of play the team had repeatedly rehearsed during preparations for the tournament.
“I think that’s why we are practising a lot. We started our preparation to get the ball to the middle. And then put it in the box.”
The teenager said the move reflected the tactical work carried out by the coaching staff and the players’ commitment to executing those plans during matches.
“And then we get to run. And then the ball goes to the finish line. I think that’s what we’ve been doing.”
The victory has placed the Black Stars in a strong position early in Group L and boosted confidence within the camp ahead of two crucial fixtures against England and Croatia.
Ghana will next face England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before rounding off their group-stage campaign against Croatia four days later.
With momentum now on their side, the Black Stars will be hoping the same preparation and discipline that delivered victory over Panama can help them continue their push for a place in the knockout stages.
