Yirenkyi’s Late Strike Hands Ghana Winning Start Against Panama
Ghana launched their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in dramatic fashion, with a stoppage-time goal from Caleb Yirenkyi sealing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening Group L encounter at Toronto Stadium.
The Black Stars had to withstand long periods of pressure and were far from their best for much of the contest, but a spirited second-half display and a clinical late counter-attack secured a priceless three points.
Panama began the match with greater intensity and almost found the breakthrough inside the opening minutes. Michael Murillo delivered a dangerous ball into the penalty area that picked out Cecilio Waterman, whose powerful effort was brilliantly kept out by Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi.
The save proved crucial as the Central Americans continued to dictate the tempo throughout the first half.
Thomas Christiansen’s side enjoyed the bulk of possession and repeatedly pushed Ghana into defensive positions, while the Black Stars struggled to gain a foothold in midfield.
Carlos Queiroz’s men found it difficult to create opportunities and went into the break without registering a meaningful attempt on goal.
Panama’s dominance, however, failed to produce the breakthrough they desired as Ati-Zigi and the Ghana defence stood firm.
The second half brought a noticeable improvement from the four-time African champions.
The introductions of Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Brandon Thomas-Asante injected fresh energy into Ghana’s attack, helping the team play with greater urgency and purpose.
Both substitutes immediately stretched the Panama backline and shifted the momentum of the match in Ghana’s favour.
The Black Stars nearly took the lead when Jerome Opoku Adjetey met a corner kick with a powerful header, only to see the ball sail narrowly wide.
As the match entered stoppage time, it appeared both sides would settle for a share of the points.
Instead, Ghana produced one decisive moment.
A rapid counter-attack caught Panama out of shape, with Thomas-Asante driving forward before threading an excellent pass into the path of Yirenkyi. The midfielder showed remarkable composure, calmly finishing past the goalkeeper to spark jubilant celebrations among the Ghana players and supporters.
The victory gives Ghana an ideal start to life in Group L and provides valuable momentum ahead of tougher tests against England and Croatia.
While the performance was far from flawless, the Black Stars demonstrated resilience, patience and a winning mentality to begin their World Cup journey on a positive note.
