Ghana Stun Panama 1–0 With Dramatic Stoppage-Time Winner In World Cup Opener

Ghana Stun Panama 1–0 With Dramatic Stoppage-Time Winner in World Cup Opener Ghana opened their World Cup campaign with a dramatic 1–0 victory over Panama in their Group L clash in Toronto on Wednesday, sealed by a last-gasp stoppage-time goal from Caleb Yirenkyi. After a tightly contested match that appeared destined for a goalless draw, Yirenkyi struck in the fifth minute of added time, bundling the ball into the net following a decisive attacking move to give the Black Stars all three points. The goal sparked wild celebrations among thousands of Ghanaian supporters in Canada’s largest city, as the team secured a crucial opening win in a physically intense and closely fought encounter. The match remained largely balanced for long spells, with both sides struggling to create clear scoring chances in open play. Panama showed strong organization and threatened at intervals, but Ghana grew into the game as the second half progressed. Despite Panama’s efforts to break the deadlock, they were unable to find a breakthrough, and Ghana ultimately capitalized in the dying moments to claim victory. The result marks a significant milestone for African football at the tournament, delivering the continent’s first win at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and giving Ghana a strong start in Group L. Ghana will now turn their attention to their next group fixture, while Panama are left to reflect on a late collapse that denied them at least a point from a hard-fought contest.