Kha Y Tran Ghana started their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Panama in Group L.
The match looked set to end in a draw. However, Ghana found a winner in the final moments. Caleb Yirenkyi scored in the 90+5th minute. As a result, Ghana secured all three points.
The victory was important. After all, England and Croatia are also in Group L. Therefore, every point could make a difference in the race for qualification.
Watch the match highlights at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gy8h5JJ2b_E
Panama Cause Problems Early
Panama began the game with confidence. Instead of sitting deep, they attacked whenever they had the chance.
As a result, Ghana faced pressure in the opening stages. Panama created several good opportunities. They also forced Ghana’s defense into mistakes.
Fortunately for Ghana, goalkeeper Ati Zigi was in top form. He made several key saves. Because of that, Panama could not find an opening goal.
Meanwhile, Ghana struggled in attack. Andre Ayew and Antoine Semenyo had little impact. In addition, the team lacked creativity in the final third.
Therefore, clear chances were limited. The first half ended 0-0.
Ghana Improve After Halftime
Ghana looked much better after the break. They controlled possession more often. They also pushed Panama deeper into their own half.
Furthermore, the midfield played with greater energy. The team moved the ball faster and attacked more directly.
As a result, Ghana created more pressure. However, Panama remained organized. Their defenders blocked shots and cleared dangerous crosses.
Although Ghana had more possession, goalscoring chances remained scarce. Therefore, frustration continued to grow.
Substitutions Change the Game
As time passed, Ghana needed fresh ideas. Therefore, coach Carlos Queiroz turned to his bench.
Thomas-Asante and Fatawu entered the match. Their arrival added speed and energy.
Soon after, Ghana looked more dangerous. Thomas-Asante stretched the Panama defense with several strong runs.
In addition, Ghana attacked with greater urgency. They spent long periods around the Panama penalty area.
Even so, Panama continued to defend well. The match appeared to be heading for a scoreless draw.
Yirenkyi Scores in the Final Seconds
Then came the decisive moment.
In the fifth minute of stoppage time, Thomas-Asante broke down the left wing. He delivered a low cross into the box.
Yirenkyi arrived at the perfect moment. He met the pass from close range and guided the ball into the net.
Immediately, Ghana’s players celebrated wildly. The goal came just seconds before the final whistle.
At the same time, Panama were left heartbroken. They had defended strongly for almost the entire match.
Because there was almost no time remaining, they could not mount a comeback.
Yirenkyi Becomes Ghana’s Match Winner
Yirenkyi was the hero of the night. His goal earned Ghana a vital victory.
However, his contribution was not limited to scoring. Throughout the game, he worked hard in midfield. He supported both attack and defense.
Most importantly, he stayed alert when the chance arrived. As a result, he delivered the winning goal.
His performance could prove important for Ghana’s confidence moving forward.
Ghana Take an Early Lead in Group L
This win gives Ghana a strong start in the tournament.
More importantly, it puts them in a good position before facing England and Croatia. Those matches will likely decide who advances from the group.
Meanwhile, Panama can still be proud of their performance. They competed well and created chances. In addition, they defended with discipline for most of the game.
Although they lost, they showed enough quality to challenge other teams in the group.
Ghana vs Panama Result
Ghana 1-0 Panama
Goalscorer:
- Caleb Yirenkyi (90+5′)
Ghana left it late, but they got the job done. Thanks to Yirenkyi’s stoppage-time goal, they opened their World Cup 2026 campaign with a crucial victory. Panama, meanwhile, will look to recover in their next group-stage match.
Read more: World Cup 2026: Full Schedule Guide
#WorldCup2026 #Ghana #Panama
