In Toronto Stadium, Ghana secured a 1‑0 victory over Panama in their Group L opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi struck in the fifth minute of added time, delivering the decisive goal after a swift move from Brandon Thomas‑Asante. The win gave the Black Stars three points, placing them level on points with England and second in the group.
The result also marked Ghana’s first clean sheet at a World Cup since 2010 and brought the nation level with Nigeria for the most World Cup wins by an African team (six). Celebrations erupted across Toronto, with fans gathering at Sankofa Square and the surrounding streets. Notable context included the absence of midfielder Thomas Partey, who was denied a Canadian visa due to pending criminal proceedings, and veteran coach Carlos Queiroz becoming the second manager to appear at five consecutive World Cups.
Ghana now looks ahead to a clash with England in Boston before their final group game against Croatia.