Ghana Secures Last-Gasp Victory Over Panama in World Cup Opener with Stoppage-Time Winner

TORONTO, Canada — Ghana opened their World Cup Group L campaign with a dramatic 1-0 win over Panama, clinching victory through a stoppage-time goal by Caleb Yirenkyi that sparked celebrations among the team’s supporters in Toronto. The match, played under steady rain at Toronto Stadium, saw both teams struggle to create clear chances until the decisive moment in the fifth minute of added time.

Panama’s early pressure came through Cecilio Waterman, whose second-minute effort was saved by Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi. The Black Stars, however, failed to register a shot on target in the first half. The second half brought increased attacking intent but few opportunities, with Panama’s Cristian Martinez rattling the side-netting in the 60th minute to ignite hopes of an upset.

Yirenkyi’s late winner ensured Ghana’s triumph in a tight contest, prompting coach Carlos Queiroz to acknowledge the crowd’s support. The veteran manager, who recently took charge of the team, became only the second coach to feature in five consecutive World Cups, having previously led Portugal in 2010 and Iran in 2014, 2018, and 2022. The match drew nearly 43,000 spectators, though boos echoed during a hydration break amid the weather delays.

Ghana’s squad was notably without Villarreal midfielder Thomas Partey, who missed the tournament after Canadian authorities denied him a visa due to ongoing rape charges in the UK.

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