A late goal from Caleb Yirenkyi propelled Ghana to a hard-fought victory over Panama in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the BMO Field in Toronto.

Panama made a bright start to the encounter, dominating possession and pinning the Black Stars deep in their own half with sustained attacking pressure.

Striker Cecilio Waterman came close to opening the scoring early in the game, forcing Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi into a crucial save as the Central Americans pressed relentlessly.

Ghana struggled to break out of their low defensive block in the opening exchanges, as Panama dictated the tempo and controlled midfield proceedings.

The Black Stars were dealt a major setback at halftime after Ati-Zigi picked up an injury and had to be replaced by Benjamin Asare.

Panama continued to threaten after the break and nearly went ahead through Martinez, but his close-range effort could only ripple the side netting.

Ghana, however, showed significant improvement in the second half, with Head Coach Otto Addo making early changes that injected energy into the side.

Substitutes Fatawu Issahaku and Brandon Thomas Asante brought urgency to the attack, with Asante particularly lively upfront and unsettling the Panama defence.

Asante came close to creating the breakthrough when he nearly set up Jordan Ayew, but the Panama backline reacted quickly to clear the danger.

Antoine Semenyo, who had been largely quiet in the first half, grew into the game and began to trouble Panama’s defence with his movement and physical presence.

With the match seemingly heading for a stalemate, Yirenkyi emerged the hero, scoring a late goal to hand Ghana all three points and secure a valuable start to their World Cup campaign.

Ghana would now turn attention to a tough second Group match against England, scheduled for Tuesday, June 23, 2026, in Boston.