Ghana Beats Panama 1‑0 in World Cup Opening Match

Ghana secured a 1‑0 win over Panama in the opening match of Group L at the World Cup in Toronto on Wednesday.

Caleb Yirenkyi scored the decisive goal in the fifth minute of stoppage time, sending thousands of Ghanaians in Canada’s largest city into a frenzy and turning an otherwise tight contest into a clear victory.

Both teams struggled to create clear chances in the first half. Panama striker Cecilio Waterma’s early attempt in the second minute was denied by an outstretched Ghana goalkeeper, Lawrence Ati Zigi. The Black Stars did not register a shot on goal before the break.

The second half, played under steady rain at the Toronto Stadium, saw more sustained attacking play. Cristian Martinez sparked a roar from the Panamanian supporters when he struck a shot into the side‑netting in the 60th minute. The match seemed headed for a scoreless draw until Yirenkyi’s goal gave Ghana the lead.

After the goal, veteran coach Carlos Queiroz turned to the stands, urging the fans on in celebration. Queiroz had taken charge of the Black Stars only a few months before the tournament began. This appearance made him the second coach to feature in five consecutive World Cups, following his stints with Portugal in 2010 and Iran in 2014, 2018 and 2022.

During a second‑half hydration break, loud boos erupted from the crowd of nearly 43,000 as rain poured down.

Ghana’s triumph came despite the absence of Villarreal midfielder Thomas Partey, who is facing trial on rape charges in Britain. Canadian authorities denied him a World Cup visa because of the British case.

AFP

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