Ghana beats Panama World Cup 2026: Caleb Yirenkyi emerged as Ghana’s hero after scoring deep into stoppage time to secure a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening Group L match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Toronto on Wednesday, June 17.
With the game seemingly heading for a draw, the Black Stars launched a rapid counterattack in the fifth minute of added time.
Substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante surged down the left wing before delivering a low cross into the penalty area, where Yirenkyi arrived to calmly turn the ball home from close range.
The late winner sparked jubilant celebrations among Ghana’s players and supporters, while tensions flared moments later as players from both sides became involved in a brief altercation before the final whistle confirmed the result.
💫 Special moment. Big potential. Caleb Yirenkyi is only just getting started. 👊🏾#BlackStars | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/sMkUiP1i1Y
— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) June 18, 2026
Ghana beats Panama World Cup 2026
The FIFA World Cup 2026 contest was largely uneventful in the opening half, with Panama looking the more threatening side. Goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi was forced into an early save to deny Cecilio Waterman and later watched Jiovany Ramos fire wide after another dangerous Panamanian attack.
Ati Zigi’s evening ended prematurely due to injury, with Benjamin Asare replacing him at the break.
Ghana improved significantly after the interval and enjoyed more possession, though clear-cut opportunities remained scarce.
The Black Stars finally registered their first shot of the match shortly after halftime when Jonas Adjetey’s header was comfortably saved by Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera.
The victory gives Ghana a valuable three points in a group that also features England and Croatia. Earlier in the day, England strengthened their credentials as group favourites with a 4-2 win over Croatia.
Our @FIFAWorldCup campaign is up and running! 👏 pic.twitter.com/eIVCDcKG0C
— England (@England) June 17, 2026
Meanwhile, the Black Stars were without experienced midfielder Thomas Partey, who missed the match after being unable to travel to Canada.
Carlos Queiroz’s side will now turn their attention to a highly anticipated clash against England in Boston on June 24, while Panama will seek to bounce back when they face Croatia in their next fixture.
Gariba Raubil is in the United States covering the 2026 FIFA World Cup for Ghana Sports Market, bringing readers on-the-ground reports, analysis, and exclusive insights from football’s biggest tournament.
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