Gideon Mensah: Panama win was turning point of Ghana's World Cup campaign

Ghana defender Gideon Mensah has described the Black Stars' opening victory over Panama as the defining moment of their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, saying it gave the team the belief they could progress from a challenging group.

Although Ghana's journey in North America ended in the Round of 32, Mensah said he remains proud of the team's performances during the tournament, which included a draw against England and qualification for the knockout stages.

The Black Stars began their campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama, courtesy of a dramatic late strike from Caleb Yirenkyi. The win proved crucial in Ghana's bid to advance from the group stage.

Otto Addo's side then earned a disciplined goalless draw against England before suffering a narrow defeat to Croatia in their final group match.

Reflecting on the tournament, Mensah said the victory over Panama stands out above all other moments.

"I think we all enjoyed winning against Panama. Obviously, playing against England and getting a goalless draw against England was something good for the country, but we want to win every game," he said.

"Going into that game and then winning against Panama was one of the standout moments for me in the World Cup."

The 28-year-old believes the result fundamentally changed the team's outlook and gave them confidence that qualification was within reach.

"Qualifying from the group came to life because of the win against Panama. So I think that will be the standout moment for me in the World Cup."

Ghana eventually bowed out of the competition following a 1-0 defeat by Colombia in the Round of 32, ending hopes of a deeper run in the tournament.

Mensah's reflections come as he embarks on a new chapter in his club career after leaving French side AJ Auxerre for Bundesliga outfit FC Köln.

The left-back established himself as a key figure during his time in France, helping Auxerre secure promotion and becoming one of the club's most consistent performers.

He has already made his Bundesliga debut, featuring in Köln's 3-2 victory over Hoffenheim as the newly promoted side opened their league campaign with a win at the RheinEnergieStadion.

Mensah is expected to be involved again when Köln travel to face Stuttgart this weekend.

Attention will then turn back to international duty, with Ghana preparing to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. The Black Stars open with an away fixture against Côte d'Ivoire before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium later this month, with Mensah expected to play a key role in both matches.