2026 World Cup: Carlos Queiroz hails Ghana’s patience and resilience after late win over Panama
Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has lauded his players for their discipline and resilience following the Black Stars’ dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The four-time African champions made a winning start to their Group L campaign at BMO Field in Toronto, thanks to a stoppage-time strike from midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi.
The FC Nordsjaelland star emerged as Ghana’s hero in the fifth minute of added time, arriving in the box to convert from close range after Brandon Thomas-Asante spearheaded a swift counter-attack and delivered a perfectly weighted cross.
Despite securing all three points, Ghana spent long periods of the match under pressure as Panama controlled possession and dictated much of the play. However, Queiroz revealed that his side had anticipated a difficult contest and executed their game plan effectively.
"First half was to suffer against a great team. They know how to play, they know how to do things. We knew, we knew that they would control the game," the 73-year-old said.
"But step by step, this was our strategy. To let them come and start to make the control, control, control, until we scored. Because this is the way to win," he added.
The victory sees Ghana move into second place in Group L, behind England, who began their campaign with a 4-2 win over Croatia.
The Black Stars now face a crucial test against England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before concluding their group-stage fixtures against Croatia four days later.
Having secured a valuable three points from their opening game, Queiroz’s men will be aiming to build momentum and strengthen their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds for the first time since Ghana’s historic quarter-final appearance at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.