Ghana kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dramatic 1-0 win over Panama on Wednesday, after Caleb Yirenkyi struck in the 95th minute to seal all three points.
With Group L’s opening match heading for a scoreless draw, substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante broke through Panama’s defence and squared for Yirenkyi to tap in at the back post, sparking wild celebrations from the Black Stars bench and fans.
The last-gasp goal gives Ghana the ideal start as they chase a place in the knockout rounds.
Carlos Queiroz started Lawrence Ati Zigi in goal, with Marvin Senaya, Jonas Adjetey, Jerome Opoku and Gideon Mensah across the back.
Elisha Owusu and Yirenkyi anchored midfield, while Ernest Nuamah, captain Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo and Kamaldeen Sulemana spearheaded the attack.
Ghana controlled spells of possession and carried the greater attacking threat early on, but Panama’s organised defence held firm.
The Central Americans stayed dangerous on the counter, with Ati Zigi producing vital stops to keep it level at 0-0 by halftime.
Tensions rose after the break as both sides hunted a breakthrough. Panama’s César Blackman was cautioned in the 72nd minute in a scrappy, hard-fought contest.
Queiroz rolled the dice with fresh legs and Thomas-Asante’s late introduction changed the game.
Deep into added time, Thomas-Asante drove into the box and teed up Yirenkyi, who made no mistake from close range to break Panamanian resistance.
The result gives the Black Stars a vital three points in Group L and underlines their knack for late World Cup drama.Ghana now face England in Boston in a key showdown, before closing the group stage against Croatia.
