In a match that seemed destined for a goalless draw, Caleb Yirenkyi popped up in the fifth minute of stoppage time to give Ghana a precious 1-0 victory over Panama in their World Cup Group L opener at Toronto’s BMO Field. The win lifts Ghana level on three points with England at the top of the group, while Panama remain without a win in four World Cup appearances.
A Cagey First Half Under the Toronto Rain
Panama were the more enterprising side early on, with Cecilio Waterman forcing a sharp save from Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi after just two minutes. The Central Americans continued to press, with Cristian Martínez having a penalty shout waved away after he went to ground, and Jiovany Ramos blazing over when a loose ball fell to him following a punched clearance by Ati-Zigi.
Ghana struggled to create any meaningful chances, with Marvin Senaya dragging their only effort of the first period well wide just before the break after good work from Antoine Semenyo. The Manchester City forward was a peripheral figure for much of the half but began to drift centrally and influence proceedings as the interval approached.
A concern for Ghana came when Ati-Zigi required treatment late in the half, leading to his substitution at the break for Benjamin Asare.
Second Half Sparks into Life
The second period was a more open affair. Ghana’s first genuine attempt on target came when defender Jonas Adjetey headed straight at Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera. At the other end, Martínez missed a golden opportunity to give Panama the lead, firing wide from a promising position.
As the game entered its final stages, both sides pushed for a winner. Jordan Ayew, the Leicester City forward, was inches away from scoring for Ghana, only for a desperate last-ditch tackle from Ramos to deny him. Moments later, substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante of Coventry City had a goal ruled out for offside after he thought he had won it.
But Thomas-Asante would not be denied. In the 95th minute, he burst down the left flank and delivered a low cross into the six-yard box, where Yirenkyi arrived to force the ball home from close range. The bench erupted, and Ghana’s travelling support celebrated a dramatic victory.
Key Takeaways
- Ghana find a way to win: Even when not at their best, Carlos Queiroz's side showed the resilience required in tournament football.
- Panama rue missed chances: Thomas Christiansen’s team will be disappointed not to have taken something from a match they competed well in for long spells.
- Antoine Semenyo’s influence grows: The Manchester City man was quiet early on but came into the game as it stretched, reminding everyone of his quality.
- Substitutes make the difference: Both Benjamin Asare and Brandon Thomas-Asante played crucial roles in the winning goal.
- Group L wide open: With Ghana joining England on three points, the group remains intriguing ahead of the next round of fixtures.
Quick Facts
Match: Ghana 1-0 Panama
Goal scorer: Caleb Yirenkyi (90+5')
Venue: BMO Field, Toronto
Group L standings: Ghana and England joint top with 3 pts; Panama remain winless.
Source: The Guardian
