2026 World Cup: Antoine Semenyo named MoTM after Ghana's late win against Panama

Black Stars forward Antoine Semenyo was named Man of the Match following an influential display in Ghana’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ghana kicked off their Group L campaign with a dramatic win at BMO Field on Wednesday, with Caleb Yirenkyi scoring a stoppage-time winner to secure all three points for the Black Stars.

Semenyo was at the heart of Ghana’s attacking efforts throughout the contest, producing a tireless performance on the right flank.

The Manchester City attacker consistently troubled Panama’s defence with his pace, movement and direct approach, creating several of Ghana’s most promising attacking opportunities.

His contribution proved decisive in the closing stages of the match. Semenyo’s intelligent movement stretched the Panama backline before Abdul Fatawu Issahaku delivered a crucial pass that set up Yirenkyi to score in the 95th minute and spark celebrations among the Ghanaian supporters.

Making his mark in a starting lineup selected by head coach Carlos Queiroz, Semenyo combined attacking flair with defensive discipline.

He regularly tracked back to support Marvin Senaya and worked tirelessly to help Ghana maintain their shape during a closely contested encounter.

The 26-year-old emerged as one of the standout performers in a disciplined team display that saw the Black Stars keep a clean sheet and begin their World Cup journey on a winning note.

The victory places Ghana in a strong position ahead of two crucial Group L fixtures. The four-time African champions will next face England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before concluding their group-stage campaign against Croatia on June 27.

With three points already secured, Ghana will be aiming to build momentum as they pursue a place in the knockout stages for the first time since their historic run to the quarter-finals of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.