Ghana edge Panama in World Cup opener courtesy late Caleb Yirenkyi strike

Ghana kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in dramatic fashion, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama courtesy of a stoppage-time winner from Caleb Yirenkyi in their opening Group L encounter.

The Black Stars left it late, but the crucial victory ensured they started their World Cup journey on a positive note and kept pace with England, who had earlier defeated Croatia 4-2 to move to the top of the group.

Heading into the match, Ghana knew that anything less than a win could leave them playing catch-up in a competitive group. However, Carlos Queiroz's side had to overcome a spirited Panama team that proved difficult to break down throughout the contest.

Panama made the brighter start and nearly took the lead within minutes of kickoff. Goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi was called into action in just the second minute, producing an outstanding save to deny Cecilio Waterman and prevent an early setback for the Black Stars.

The Central Americans continued to apply pressure as Christian Martinez and Jiovany Ramos tested Ghana's defensive resolve. Despite enjoying significant spells of possession, Ghana struggled to create meaningful opportunities in the opening half and often found themselves frustrated by Panama's disciplined defensive setup.

The Black Stars suffered a major concern shortly before halftime when first-choice goalkeeper Ati Zigi sustained an injury. Although he managed to see out the remainder of the first half, the St. Gallen shot-stopper was unable to continue and was replaced by Benjamin Asare at the start of the second period.

Ghana emerged from the break with greater urgency and began to assert themselves more effectively in the final third. Antoine Semenyo came close to breaking the deadlock with a powerful header, while Brandon Thomas-Asante worked tirelessly to trouble Panama's backline.

Substitute Issahaku Fatawu also injected pace and creativity into Ghana's attack, helping to stretch the opposition defence as the Black Stars intensified their search for a winning goal.

Despite Ghana's improved display, Panama remained dangerous on the counterattack. Christian Martinez narrowly missed the target with a long-range effort, while Ismael Diaz forced Benjamin Asare into a smart save that kept the scores level.

As the match entered its closing stages, it appeared both teams would have to settle for a share of the points. However, Ghana found the decisive breakthrough deep into stoppage time.

Five minutes into added time, Brandon Thomas-Asante produced a moment of quality with a perfectly weighted pass into the penalty area. Caleb Yirenkyi reacted quickly, controlling the ball under pressure before creating space for himself and unleashing a thunderous strike into the roof of the net.

The spectacular finish sparked wild celebrations among Ghanaian supporters and players alike as the Black Stars finally found the goal their persistence deserved.

Panama refused to give up and launched one final push in search of an equaliser. Their best opportunity came moments later when Ismael Diaz connected with a rebound inside the box, but substitute goalkeeper Benjamin Asare once again proved decisive, making a crucial save to preserve Ghana's advantage.

The final whistle confirmed a valuable three points for Ghana, who now move level with England on three points at the summit of Group L following the opening round of matches.

Beyond the result, the performance highlighted Ghana's resilience and determination, qualities that could prove vital as they pursue qualification for the knockout stages of the tournament.

With confidence boosted by a winning start, the Black Stars will now turn their attention to their next group fixture, knowing that another positive result could strengthen their chances of advancing in the competition.

For now, however, the spotlight belongs to Caleb Yirenkyi, whose late heroics ensured Ghana began their World Cup campaign with a memorable victory.