YIRENKYI’S LATE STRIKE FIRES GHANA PAST PANAMA IN WORLD CUP OPENER

Ghana made a winning start to their 2026 World Cup campaign as Caleb Yirenkyi scored deep into stoppage time to secure a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in Toronto.

In a tense and largely uneventful contest, clear-cut chances were few and far between.

Panama looked the more comfortable side for long periods and nearly took an early lead through Cecilio Waterman, but Lawrence Ati Zigi produced a smart save to keep the scores level.

The Black Stars struggled to create opportunities in the first half, while Panama’s dominance of possession failed to translate into meaningful chances.

The game appeared destined for a draw until Ghana found a breakthrough in the fifth minute of added time.

Brandon Thomas-Asante burst into the box and squared the ball for Yirenkyi, who calmly finished into an empty net to spark wild celebrations among the Ghanaian supporters.

The victory gives Ghana a valuable three points in Group L ahead of a huge clash with England, while Panama are left frustrated after coming within seconds of earning their first-ever World Cup point.