Caleb Yirenkyi Nets 95th-Minute Winner as Ghana Edge Panama in World Cup Group L Clash

In a tense and rain-soaked contest at Toronto's BMO Field, Caleb Yirenkyi struck deep into stoppage time to give Ghana a precious 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening 2026 World Cup Group L fixture. The substitute bundled home a low cross from Brandon Thomas-Asante with virtually the last kick of the game, sparking wild celebrations on the Ghanaian bench and leaving Panama heartbroken after a resilient defensive display.

How the Match Unfolded

Neither side created much in a cagey first half, with Panama's Antoine Semenyo – deployed in a more central role – struggling to influence proceedings. The best early chance fell to Panama's Cecilio Waterman, who forced a sharp save from Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi inside two minutes. Ghana, coached by Carlos Queiroz, failed to register a single shot before the break, opting for a patient, containment-based approach.

The introduction of Thomas-Asante after the interval injected much-needed urgency into Ghana's attack. His pace and direct running caused problems down the left, and it was his delivery that eventually unhinged the Panamanian backline. Panama, meanwhile, came agonizingly close when Cristian Martínez fired into the side-netting from an acute angle, and only a last-ditch tackle by Jiovany Ramos denied André Ayew a tap-in from Semenyo's inviting pass.

Just when it seemed both sides would settle for a point, Thomas-Asante found space on the flank in the fifth minute of added time. His driven cross skidded across the six-yard box, and Yirenkyi reacted quickest to steer the ball home from close range. Panama staged a desperate response, with goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera going forward for a corner and getting his head to the ball, but Ghana held on for a dramatic victory.

Post-Match Reaction

"We battled like warriors," said Queiroz. "We won the game with our brains. First we had to suffer against a great team. They know how to play. We knew they would control the game. But step by step, our strategy was to let them come. This is the way to win."

What It Means for Group L

The result lifts Ghana level with early group favorites England at the top of Group L on three points, though England hold a superior goal difference after their convincing win over Croatia. For Panama, the defeat is a bitter blow to their knockout hopes, with daunting fixtures against England and Croatia still to come. The Central Americans, seeking their first-ever World Cup point in a fourth tournament appearance, showed plenty of spirit but lacked a cutting edge in the final third.

Key Takeaways

• Yirenkyi emerges as Ghana’s super-sub: The match-winner showed composure when it mattered most, providing a clinical finish from a rare clear-cut chance.
• Panama’s defensive resilience: Despite the late lapse, Thomas Christiansen’s side were compact and well-organized for 94 minutes, frustrating a much-fancied Ghana team.
• Queiroz’s tactical gamble pays off: Ghana’s cautious start allowed Panama to control possession, but the late introduction of width and pace changed the game.
• Group L remains wide open: With England expected to top the group, Ghana now have a crucial head start in the battle for the second knockout spot.
• Panama face an uphill task: Without a point, they must now upset either England or Croatia to have any realistic chance of advancing.

Quick Facts

Final Score: Ghana 1–0 Panama

Goal Scorer: Caleb Yirenkyi (90+5')

Venue: BMO Field, Toronto

Substitute Assist: Brandon Thomas-Asante

Match report sourced from Sky Sports.