Ghana secured a dramatic victory over Panama in their World Cup opener in Toronto, Canada, with Caleb Yirenkyi scoring a goal in the 95th minute. The late strike denied Panama their first-ever point in World Cup competition and gave Ghana all three points to start their tournament campaign.
The match appeared headed for a draw until the final moments of stoppage time when Yirenkyi found the back of the net. Panama, making their second World Cup appearance after debuting in 2018, came close to achieving a historic result before the heartbreaking conclusion. The Central American nation had defended throughout the match in search of their maiden World Cup point.
Ghana returned to the World Cup after missing the previous tournament. The African nation previously reached the quarterfinals in 2010 and has been a regular participant in the competition. The late winner provides important momentum as teams navigate the expanded 48-team format introduced for this World Cup.
The victory gives Ghana three points in their opening group stage match. Teams compete in groups during the first round of the tournament, with the top finishers advancing to the knockout stages. Opening match results carry significant weight in determining which nations progress beyond the group phase.
The match was played in Toronto as part of the tournament being co-hosted across North America. The 2026 World Cup represents the first edition featuring 48 teams, an expansion from the previous 32-team format. Ghana will look to build on this result in their remaining group matches, while Panama faces an uphill battle after the opening defeat.