Image: from FootyGhana.com X @FootyGhana
By Open Chronicle with agencies
Ghana began its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama on Wednesday, thanks to a stoppage-time goal that secured all three points for the side coached by Portuguese manager Carlos Queiroz.
In a tightly contested Group L encounter played in Toronto, Canada, both teams struggled to find a breakthrough for much of the match. Ghana enjoyed periods of control and created better opportunities, but Panama remained disciplined and appeared on course to earn a valuable point.
The decisive moment arrived deep into added time when Caleb Yirenkyi emerged as Ghana’s hero. The midfielder found the back of the net in the fifth minute of stoppage time, sparking celebrations among the African side and breaking Panamanian hearts.
The late strike ensured Ghana claimed a crucial victory in its opening match of the tournament and maintained its strong World Cup pedigree. For Panama, the defeat extended a difficult record on football’s biggest stage. The Central American nation has now lost all four of its World Cup matches, following three defeats during its debut appearance in 2018.
Queiroz Makes Winning Start
The victory marks another milestone in the extensive World Cup career of Carlos Queiroz. The experienced Portuguese coach is overseeing Ghana in its fifth consecutive World Cup appearance and continues to add to a remarkable personal record at the tournament.
Queiroz previously guided Portugal at the 2010 World Cup and later led Iran at three consecutive editions in 2014, 2018 and 2022. His experience was evident as Ghana remained patient throughout the match before eventually finding the winning goal.
Group L Taking Shape
With the victory, Ghana joins England at the top of Group L on three points. Earlier in the day, England defeated Croatia 4-2 in an entertaining contest to begin its campaign with a win.
The result sets up what could be a fascinating battle for qualification from the group, with Ghana and England currently holding the early advantage.
For Ghana, the dramatic triumph provides confidence and momentum heading into the next round of matches, while Panama faces an uphill challenge if it hopes to keep its qualification hopes alive.
As the final whistle blew in Toronto, Ghana celebrated a victory earned through persistence and determination, while Caleb Yirenkyi’s late goal ensured his name would be remembered as the player who delivered one of the first dramatic moments of the 2026 World Cup.