The Black Stars of Ghana begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup journey tonight when they face Panama at the BMO Field in Toronto, with kick-off set for 23:00 GMT. Both nations enter the Group L opener determined to start their campaigns on a winning note.
Ghana arrive at the tournament under pressure after a difficult run of friendly matches, while Panama—nicknamed Los Canaleros—have shown steady improvement in recent outings.
The Black Stars’ qualification campaign was strong, as they topped Group I in CAF qualifying with eight wins, one draw and just one defeat, finishing six points clear of Madagascar.
However, momentum has since stalled, with the team winless in seven matches (one draw, six defeats), including heavy losses to Austria (5-1), Germany (2-1) and Mexico (2-0).
The West African side also endured disappointment earlier this year after failing to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in two decades, a setback that has intensified scrutiny around the national team.
Since securing their World Cup ticket with a narrow win over Comoros in October, Ghana have undergone managerial changes, with Otto Addo departing and Carlos Queiroz taking charge.
The experienced Portuguese coach, who previously led Iran at the 2022 World Cup, brings decades of international coaching experience across multiple national teams.
Panama, meanwhile, return to the global stage after their 2018 debut, where they exited in the group stage following defeats to England, Belgium and Tunisia.
This time, they are targeting a historic first-ever place in the knockout rounds, with the expanded format offering an outside chance for third-placed teams to progress.
Under head coach Thomas Christiansen, Panama impressed in CONCACAF qualifying, finishing unbeaten in the second round (three wins, three draws) to secure their place at the tournament.
Their preparations have been mixed, including a 6-2 defeat to Brazil at the Maracanã, though they also finished runners-up in the 2025 CONCACAF Nations League.
Form Guide
- Ghana: L L L L L L D
- Panama: L D W L W D
Team News
Ghana will be without midfielder Thomas Partey, who has been ruled out due to visa complications linked to an ongoing legal case in the United Kingdom.
The rest of the squad is available, with captain Jordan Ayew expected to lead the attack alongside Ernest Nuamah and Antoine Semenyo.
Panama have been boosted by the possible return of Adalberto Carrasquilla, who has been recovering from injury and could feature from the bench. Veteran midfielder Aníbal Godoy remains central to their plans and is set to earn his 156th international cap.
- Predicted Line-ups
Ghana:
- Ati-Zigi; Senaya, Adjetey, Opoku, Mensah; Owusu, Yirenkyi; Nuamah, Boakye, Semenyo; Ayew.
Panama:
- Mosquera; Ramos, Córdoba, Andrade, Murillo; Godoy, Harvey; Davis, Rodríguez, Díaz; Fajardo.
Prediction
- Ghana 1-1 Panama
Despite being slight favourites on paper, Ghana’s recent struggles suggest a difficult opener, while Panama’s organisation and resilience could be enough to secure a point in Toronto.
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