Ghana snatched a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama at the FIFA World Cup after Caleb Yirenkyi scored a stoppage-time winner to deny the Central American side their first-ever point at the global tournament.
The Black Stars struggled for long periods in a tense Group L encounter played in Toronto, Canada, but found the breakthrough in the 95th minute to secure all three points and keep their hopes of advancing in the competition alive.
Panama, appearing in only their fourth World Cup match since making their debut at the tournament in 2018, were seconds away from achieving a historic result. However, Yirenkyi’s late intervention shattered their dreams and extended the country’s difficult record at football’s biggest stage.
The match had looked destined to end goalless as both sides failed to convert the few opportunities that came their way.
But with six minutes of added time already being played, Ghana launched one final attack.
Brandon Thomas-Asante raced down the left wing, beat his marker with a burst of pace and composure, and delivered a low cross into the penalty area. Yirenkyi timed his run perfectly and calmly tapped the ball into the net to spark wild celebrations among Ghana’s players and supporters.
It was the latest winning goal scored so far at this summer’s World Cup and a moment that could prove crucial in Ghana’s campaign.
The result was particularly painful for Panama, who had shown discipline and determination throughout the contest.
The Central Americans matched the four-time African champions in nearly every department and appeared set to earn a well-deserved point before the heartbreaking finish.
Panama nearly shocked Ghana in the opening minutes of the game.
Inside the first two minutes, experienced forward Cecilio Waterman found space and unleashed a powerful effort that forced Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi into an important save. Zigi reacted quickly to tip the ball over the crossbar and prevent an early setback for his side.
The save settled Ghana, but the Black Stars struggled to impose themselves on the match.
Despite enjoying periods of possession, clear-cut chances were difficult to create as Panama defended with discipline and organisation.
The first half ended without a goal, although Ghana suffered a major concern involving goalkeeper Ati Zigi.
The shot-stopper landed awkwardly while dealing with a situation in the opening period and appeared to be in discomfort afterwards.
Head coach Carlos Queiroz decided not to take any risks and introduced Benjamin Asare at the start of the second half.
Asare, Ghana’s second-choice goalkeeper, was immediately called into action as Panama continued to push forward in search of a breakthrough.
The Central Americans came close once again when Cristian Martinez found himself in a promising position just a few yards from goal.
However, his effort crashed into the side-netting, leaving Panama supporters wondering how the opportunity had gone begging.
As the game moved into its closing stages, Panama sensed that a famous result was within reach.
Their confidence grew as Ghana failed to create meaningful chances despite the urgency of the situation.
In a desperate bid to snatch victory, Panama even sent goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera forward for a late set-piece.
The bold move almost paid off.
Mosquera managed to head the ball into a dangerous area where teammate Ismael Diaz was waiting. Diaz nodded the ball towards goal, but Benjamin Asare was well positioned to gather comfortably and preserve Ghana’s clean sheet.
That moment proved significant.
Moments later, Ghana broke forward for the decisive attack that ended Panama’s hopes.
Yirenkyi’s winning goal secured an important three points for the Black Stars, but the overall performance raised questions about whether the team can compete effectively against stronger opposition in the tournament.
Ghana now face an even tougher test against Group L leaders England in Boston on Tuesday.
The Black Stars are expected to improve significantly if they hope to secure a positive result against one of the tournament favourites.
England have looked impressive in the group stage and possess the attacking quality to punish defensive mistakes and missed opportunities.
For Panama, attention now turns to their next fixture against Croatia in Toronto.
Although disappointed by the manner of defeat, the team can take encouragement from their display against Ghana.
They proved they can compete at this level and will be eager to finally claim their first point at the World Cup.
Panama’s World Cup journey has been one of gradual progress.
The nation made its tournament debut in 2018, marking a historic achievement for football in the country. While results have not always gone their way, each appearance has helped increase the profile of the sport and inspired a new generation of players.
Ghana, meanwhile, remain one of Africa’s most recognised football nations.
The Black Stars have represented the continent at several World Cups and reached the quarter-finals in 2010, the furthest any African team had gone at the tournament at that time alongside Cameroon and Senegal.
However, Ghana entered this match under difficult circumstances.
The team were without experienced midfielder Thomas Partey, who was denied entry into Canada because of ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom.
His absence deprived the Black Stars of one of their most influential players in midfield and may have contributed to the team’s lack of control during parts of the game.
In the end, though, Ghana found a way to win.
It was not their most convincing performance, and improvements will be needed in the matches ahead.
But World Cups are often remembered for dramatic moments rather than polished displays.
Thanks to Caleb Yirenkyi’s cool finish deep into stoppage time, Ghana remain firmly in the hunt for qualification, while Panama are left to reflect on how close they came to making history.