Carlos Queiroz becomes oldest coach to win a World Cup match as Ghana edge Panama

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has etched his name into FIFA World Cup history after becoming the oldest coach to win a match at the tournament.

The experienced Portuguese manager achieved the milestone on Wednesday as he guided the Black Stars to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening Group L fixture.

Ghana secured all three points in dramatic fashion, with midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi scoring a stoppage-time winner to hand the four-time African champions a crucial victory.

Following the match, FIFA confirmed Queiroz's record-breaking achievement, highlighting his longevity and experience on football's biggest stage.

"The oldest head coach to win a match at the @FIFAWorldCup ," FIFA said.

"Carlos Queiroz is coaching at his fifth consecutive FIFA World Cup, more than any other head coach at this year's tournament!"

The oldest head coach to win a match at the @FIFAWorldCup 🏆



Carlos Queiroz is coaching at his fifth consecutive FIFA World Cup, more than any other head coach at this year's tournament! pic.twitter.com/JYjbHJHiUg

— FIFA (@FIFAcom) June 18, 2026

The victory gives Ghana an early advantage in Group L and boosts their hopes of progressing to the knockout rounds. The Black Stars will next face England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before concluding their group-stage campaign against Croatia on June 27.

With momentum on their side, Ghana will be aiming to build on their winning start and secure qualification for the knockout phase for the first time since their historic run to the quarter-finals at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.