Ghana Leave It Late As Yirenkyi Sinks Panama In World Cup Opener

Caleb Yirenkyi scored in stoppage time to give Ghana a dramatic 1-0 win over Panama.
Ghana played without Thomas Partey after he was denied entry into Canada.
The victory sends Ghana top of Group L after England defeated Croatia earlier in the day.

Ghana opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama after Caleb Yirenkyi struck deep into stoppage time at BMO Field on Wednesday night.

With the match seemingly heading for a goalless draw, Brandon Thomas-Asante broke free down the left flank in the fifth minute of added time and delivered a dangerous cross across the face of goal. Yirenkyi arrived at the perfect moment to convert from close range, sparking wild celebrations among the Ghana players and supporters.

The late breakthrough capped a hard-fought contest that produced few clear-cut opportunities for either side. Ghana entered the match without midfielder Thomas Partey, who was unavailable after being denied entry into Canada while awaiting trial in England on rape and sexual assault charges, all of which he has denied.

Panama threatened early and nearly took the lead just two minutes into the match when Cecilio Waterman met a low cross from Amir Murillo and directed an effort toward goal. Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi reacted sharply, diving to his right to push the ball away.

Ati-Zigi’s evening ended at halftime after sustaining several heavy collisions during the opening period. Benjamin Asare replaced him for the second half and helped preserve Ghana’s clean sheet.

The game gradually opened up after the hour mark as both sides searched for a decisive goal. In the 65th minute, Thomas-Asante broke through Panama’s defence and squared a dangerous pass across the six-yard box toward Jordan Ayew, but Jiovany Ramos produced a crucial recovery tackle to prevent what looked like a certain goal.

As the clock ticked into stoppage time, Ghana finally found the breakthrough their pressure deserved. Thomas-Asante’s cross created chaos inside the Panama penalty area, and Yirenkyi made no mistake from close range to secure all three points.

The result leaves Ghana top of Group L following England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia earlier in the day. Panama, meanwhile, remain without a point and will need a response in their next group-stage fixture to keep their hopes of progression alive.

Ghana will now turn their attention to a crucial clash against England, while Panama look to bounce back after suffering heartbreak in the closing moments of their tournament opener.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.