2026 World Cup: We are proud to have 'special' Caleb Yirenkyi in Black Stars - Thomas Partey

Black Stars vice-captain Thomas Partey has praised teenage midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi, highlighting the growing depth and confidence within the squad ahead of their high-stakes World Cup meeting with England on Tuesday.

Yirenkyi, who plays for FC Nordsjaelland, stepped in for Partey during Ghana’s opening Group L fixture against Panama in Toronto and made an immediate impact.

The 18-year-old produced a composed display and scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 victory at BMO Field, sealing all three points for the West African side.

With Ghana now turning attention to their second group match against England at Gillette Stadium, Partey said Yirenkyi’s breakout performance did not come as a surprise to his teammates.

​"We all saw what he can do, and he's not only good in the game. In training, he's really good, and I'm happy to have such a talent in our team."

Partey also pointed to a broader wave of young talent emerging within the national setup, stressing that continued development will depend on opportunity and trust.

​"And he's not the only one, but we have a couple of them that are really doing well. They just need more chances, and they'll be good."

Kick-off for the encounter is set for 20:00 GMT, with Ghana knowing that a win or even a draw could be enough to move them closer to the knockout stages.

Carlos Queiroz’s side will complete their Group L campaign against Croatia on June 27, as they chase a first appearance in the World Cup knockout phase since their memorable quarter-final run in 2010.