Ghana’s defender #04 Jonas Adjei Adjetey heads the ball during the 2026 World Cup Group L football match between Ghana and Panama at the Toronto Stadium in Toronto on June 17, 2026. (Photo by Cole Burston / AFP)
Ghana kicked off their World Cup Group L campaign with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in Toronto, thanks to a stoppage-time winner from Caleb Yirenkyi.
The Black Stars struggled to create clear chances for much of the contest, while Panama looked the more threatening side in the opening stages.
Goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi made an early save to keep Ghana level before both teams battled through a tense and closely contested encounter.
The second half, played in persistent rain, produced more attacking intent, but neither side could find a breakthrough during normal time.
Just when the match appeared destined to end goalless, Yirenkyi struck deep into added time to spark wild celebrations among Ghanaian supporters.
The victory handed coach Carlos Queiroz a winning start to Ghana’s World Cup journey and a place in football history as only the second manager to appear at five consecutive World Cups.
