Late Goal Sends Ghana Level On Points With England in Group L

Late Goal Sends Ghana Level On Points With England in Group L

By Niyi Busari 

A dramatic stoppage-time goal from defender Caleb Yirenkyi earned Ghana a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening Group L match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday night, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Black Stars appeared destined for a frustrating draw at Toronto Stadium (BMO Field) before Yirenkyi struck in the 95th minute to secure all three points in a contest largely dominated by tactical discipline and defensive organisation.

With both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances for much of the encounter, the breakthrough finally arrived deep into added time. Substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante sparked the decisive move with a powerful run down the left flank before delivering a low cross into the six-yard area.

Yirenkyi timed his run to perfection and calmly steered the ball beyond Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera, sending Ghana’s players and supporters into wild celebrations.

Panama responded by committing numbers forward in search of a late equaliser, with Mosquera even joining the attack for a set piece in the closing moments. However, Ghana's defence stood firm to preserve a valuable clean sheet.

The first half offered few scoring opportunities, with both sides cancelling each other out in a cautious tactical battle. Yirenkyi was booked in the 16th minute, while Ghana struggled to find attacking rhythm against a well-organised Panamanian side.

Seeking greater attacking threat, Ghana's coaching crew introduced Thomas-Asante and Abdul Fatawu in the 57th minute, a move that ultimately proved decisive.

Goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi started the match for Ghana but was replaced at half-time by Benjamin Asare. The substitute goalkeeper made three important saves in the second half to deny Panama and keep the Black Stars in contention.

Thomas-Asante almost broke the deadlock moments earlier when his effort in the 90th minute was saved by Mosquera, although the offside flag was subsequently raised.

The victory lifts Ghana level on three points with England at the top of Group L after the Three Lions recorded a 4-2 victory over Croatia earlier in the day.

The result represents a significant boost for the Black Stars, who arrived at the tournament without influential midfielder Thomas Partey, sidelined by travel visa complications.

Despite enjoying 63 per cent possession and creating several dangerous moments, Panama were unable to find a way past Asare and now face increased pressure in their bid to advance from the group.

Ghana will next face England on June 23 before concluding their Group L campaign against Croatia on June 27.