Caleb Yirenkyi scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner as Ghana defeated Panama 1-0 in their opening Group L match at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The goal came in the fifth minute of added time in the second half and secured a crucial victory for the Black Stars.

Late drama seals Ghana’s win

The match looked set to end in a goalless draw until Ghana produced a decisive moment deep into stoppage time. Brandon Thomas-Asante made a strong run down the left wing and delivered a dangerous low cross across the goal. Yirenkyi timed his run perfectly and tapped the ball in from close range. The goal triggered huge celebrations from Ghana’s players and fans.

The late strike also denied Panama their first-ever World Cup point. Instead, Ghana walked away with all three points from a tightly contested game.

Stalemate dominates most of the match

The game, played in rainy conditions at BMO Field, remained low on clear chances for long periods. Both teams struggled to create quality attacking moves against well-organised defences.

Panama had the better early opportunity. Cecilio Waterman met a low cross from Amir Murillo, but Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi reacted quickly to make a strong save. That shot remained the only attempt on target in the first half.

Ati-Zigi later suffered heavy collisions during the game and had to be substituted at half-time. Benjamin Asare replaced him in goal for the second half.

Ghana controlled more possession as the match progressed, but Panama stayed compact and looked dangerous on counterattacks. Neither side could find a breakthrough in regular time.

Ghana push late and find breakthrough

The match opened up slightly after the hour mark. Ghana came closer in the 65th minute when Thomas-Asante set up Jordan Ayew, but Jiovany Ramos produced a crucial last-ditch tackle to stop the chance.

Despite Ghana’s growing pressure, Panama continued to resist strongly and seemed set to secure a draw. However, Ghana finally broke through in stoppage time with Thomas-Asante’s decisive run and Yirenkyi’s close-range finish.

Ghana move level with England in Group L

Ghana entered the tournament without midfielder Thomas Partey, who was denied entry into Canada while he awaits trial on rape charges in England. Even without him, Ghana secured a winning start to their campaign.

The victory puts Ghana level on points with England, who defeated Croatia 4-2 in their opening match. Ghana sit second in Group L on goal difference, while Panama are third and Croatia remain bottom after the first round of games.