On June 18, 2024, Ghana faced Panama in the opening match of Group L at the FIFA World Cup in Toronto, Canada. The game marked the first World Cup encounter between the two nations.
Ghana qualified with eight wins, one draw and one loss in its African qualifiers and recently held Wales to a 1‑1 draw. The team entered the tournament under new coach Carlos Queiroz, with several players featuring in top European leagues, including Manchester City and Leicester. Panama, making its second World Cup appearance after a winless debut in 2018, earned three wins and three draws in CONCACAF qualifying. Its squad combines domestic talent with players based abroad and will aim to improve on its previous group‑stage results.
Both sides feature a mix of experienced internationals and emerging prospects as they seek their first points in the tournament.