Yirenkyi’s Late Heroics Give Ghana Winning Start at World Cup

Toronto, Canada — For 94 minutes, Ghana and Panama served up a match short on quality and chances. Then, in the dying seconds, Caleb Yirenkyi transformed a forgettable evening into one of celebration for the Black Stars.

The 21-year-old midfielder struck deep into stoppage time to secure a dramatic 1-0 victory for Ghana in their opening Group L match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Toronto.

The win handed the Black Stars a perfect start and moved them level on three points with England, who defeated Croatia 4-2 earlier in the group.

Panama Dominate Early Exchanges
Panama began brightly and nearly took the lead inside the opening three minutes. Michael Murillo delivered a dangerous cross that found Cecilio Waterman unmarked in the penalty area, but goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi reacted brilliantly to keep out the forward’s close-range volley.

That opportunity set the tone for much of the first half. Panama enjoyed more possession, moved the ball with confidence and kept Ghana pinned back for extended periods. The Black Stars struggled to establish any rhythm and failed to register a shot on target before the interval.

Despite Panama’s superiority, Ati-Zigi’s early save ensured the teams went into the break level.

Black Stars Improve After the Interval
Ghana emerged with greater urgency after halftime. Tactical changes and the introduction of Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Brandon Thomas-Asante injected pace and energy into the attack.

Issahaku’s direct running troubled Panama’s defence, while defender Jerome Opoku came close from a set-piece, sending a header narrowly wide.

Although chances remained scarce, Ghana looked more dangerous and gradually wrestled back control of the contest.

Yirenkyi Delivers at the Death
As the match appeared destined for a goalless draw, Ghana produced one decisive moment.

In the fifth minute of added time, Brandon Thomas-Asante launched a swift counterattack before slipping a perfectly weighted pass into the path of Caleb Yirenkyi. The FC Nordsjaelland midfielder kept his composure and calmly slotted home, sparking jubilant scenes among Ghanaian supporters inside the stadium.

The goal completed a remarkable turnaround for the midfielder, who has enjoyed a rapid rise since graduating from the Right to Dream Academy. Having scored his first senior international goal against Wales last month, he now has a World Cup winner to his name.

Important Result for Ghana
With Thomas Partey unavailable for the opener, the victory represents an important boost for the Black Stars, who have endured inconsistent form in recent months.

Panama, meanwhile, will feel unfortunate to leave empty-handed after controlling large portions of the encounter but failing to convert their dominance into goals.

High-Profile Audience
Several notable personalities witnessed Ghana’s dramatic victory, including Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie and American actor Anthony Mackie. Former Black Stars stars Asamoah Gyan and Samuel Osei Kuffour were also present.

Looking Ahead
Ghana now turn their attention to a crucial Group L clash against England, a fixture that could significantly shape their path to the knockout rounds. Panama, meanwhile, will seek to revive their campaign when they face Croatia.

For one unforgettable moment in Toronto, however, the spotlight belonged to Caleb Yirenkyi. When Ghana needed a hero, the young midfielder answered the call.

Match Details
2026 FIFA World Cup – Group L
Ghana 1-0 Panama
Goals: Caleb Yirenkyi (90+5')
Venue: Toronto Stadium
Attendance: 45,089

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