Toronto, June 18 -- Ghana began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in their Group L clash, thanks to a stoppage-time winner from Caleb Yirenkyi on Wednesday (local time).

The match looked destined to end in a goalless draw as both sides struggled to break the deadlock in a tightly contested encounter. Ghana enjoyed more possession but found it difficult to penetrate a disciplined and well-organised Panama defence, which remained compact and limited clear scoring opportunities throughout the game.

Panama also posed occasional threats on the counter-attack and kept Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi alert at key moments.

However, just when the match appeared set to finish level, Yirenkyi struck in ...