June 18 (THEWILL) — Ghana began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dramatic 1–0 victory over Panama, snatching all three points deep into stoppage time in their Group L opener at Toronto Stadium on Thursday.
Both sides entered the contest knowing the importance of making a strong start in a group that also features England and Croatia, but it was Panama who looked sharper in the opening exchanges.
The Central Americans dominated possession for much of the first half, controlling 64 percent of the ball and dictating the pace of play. They nearly made an early breakthrough in just the second minute when Cecilio Waterman unleashed a dangerous effort that forced Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi into action.
Ghana struggled badly before the break and failed to register a meaningful attacking threat until the closing moments of the first half, underlining a disappointing opening 45 minutes for the Black Stars.
The West Africans, however, returned from halftime with greater urgency and attacking purpose. Antoine Semenyo became the driving force behind Ghana’s improved display, constantly troubling Panama’s defensive shape with his movement and link-up play.
Just when the match appeared destined for a goalless draw, Ghana found the breakthrough in dramatic fashion. Semenyo sparked the move before releasing substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante down the left flank. The forward won the race to the ball and delivered a dangerous low cross across the face of goal.
Caleb Yirenkyi reacted quickest, stretching to poke the ball over the line in the fifth minute of added time to send Ghana’s supporters into celebration.
Panama threw everyone forward in search of a late equaliser, including goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera, leading to chaotic closing moments. Ghana held firm, with goalkeeper Manaf Nurudeen Asare safely gathering the final attack before tempers briefly flared on the pitch after the final whistle.
The victory lifts Ghana to second place in Group L after matchday one, behind England, who defeated Croatia 4–2 in the group’s other fixture. Panama remain without a World Cup victory, having now lost all four matches in the tournament’s history.
Olumide Atiba
