A 95th-minute strike from Caleb Yirenkyi (3) powered Ghana to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama in their Group L opening fixture, securing three points for the West African side.

Match Summary

Panama dominated the early stages of the match, showcasing tactical discipline and controlling possession. Despite their dominance, the Central American side was repeatedly frustrated by Ghanaian goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi, whose performance kept the game scoreless.

However, Ati-Zigi did not return after the break due to an injury and was replaced by backup goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, who took over responsibilities between the posts.

During the first half, Ghana captain Jordan Ayew cut an isolated figure as a lone forward up top. The team struggled with accuracy throughout the opening period, failing to register any shots on target.

Second-Half Turnaround

Ghana returned with a tactical change and renewed energy in the second half, mounting consistent pressure on the Panamanian defense. While the second half saw them create numerous goal-scoring opportunities, poor finishing initially left many of those chances squandered. Ayew was also eventually substituted off the pitch.

The breakthrough finally came deep into stoppage time. In the 95th minute (90+5'), Yirenkyi connected with an assist provided by substitute forward Brandon Thomas-Asante (10), who broke free down the left flank and squared the ball across the area for Caleb Yirenkyi to tap home the late game-winner.

Earlier in Group L action, England defeated Croatia 4-2 in a high-scoring match that saw a valiant fight from the Croatian squad.

Post-Match Reaction

Captain Jordan Ayew: "It was a very, very difficult and tight game. We had to be patient. We defended well. We had to be patient. We knew they'd be tired."

Head Coach Carlos Queiroz: "We battled like warriors. First half we played like warriors. Second half we won with the brains. The victory means three points, that's it. I'm so happy for the boys. A win is very expensive but the boys are ready to pay the price."

Celebrations

While Queiroz knelt on the field and blew kisses to the attending fans in the stands, Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, who witnessed the game in the company of Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Simeon-Okraku, rose to her feet in her Black Stars jersey and danced to celebrate the goal and victory. Meanwhile, Benjamin Asare led his brethren and technical team in what appeared to be a brief but heartfelt thanksgiving prayer session.

Partey Exclusion

A key midfielder expected to aid the opener was Thomas Partey, who was denied a Canadian visa — a decision that was upheld in court after an appeal. According to Canadian authorities, Partey was not truthful about facing criminal charges in the UK while seeking to enter Canada. He is expected on the field when his side takes on group leaders England on Tuesday, June 23 at the Boston Stadium, United States.