Yirenkyi’s stoppage-time strike seals Ghana victory over Panama

TLE DESK: Ghana snatched a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening FIFA World Cup Group L match on Wednesday as Caleb Yirenkyi scored deep into stoppage time to secure all three points at Toronto’s BMO Field.

The decisive moment came in the fifth minute of added time when Brandon Thomas-Asante broke free down the left flank and delivered a low cross across the face of goal. Yirenkyi arrived unmarked to tap home from close range, sparking jubilant celebrations among Ghanaian players and supporters.

The 20-year-old midfielder said the goal was the result of a move the team had repeatedly worked on during preparations for the tournament.

“We try to get the ball wide and put it into the box for runners to finish. I just kept moving forward and was fortunate to get on the end of the cross,” Yirenkyi said after the match.

The victory was particularly significant for Ghana, who played without experienced midfielder Thomas Partey. The former captain was unable to travel to Canada after being denied entry while awaiting trial in England on rape charges.

Panama had the better of the early exchanges and nearly took the lead in the second minute when forward Cecilio Waterman met a low cross from Amir Murillo, forcing Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi into a fine save.

Ati-Zigi later left the match at halftime following a series of heavy collisions and was replaced by Benjamin Asare. Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz said the goalkeeper would undergo further medical assessment.

After a cautious first half, the game opened up after the break as both sides pushed for a winner. Ghana came close in the 65th minute when Thomas-Asante broke through Panama’s defence and squared the ball towards Jordan Ayew, only for defender Jiovany Ramos to produce a crucial last-ditch tackle.

Ghana gradually gained control in the latter stages and were rewarded for their persistence with Yirenkyi’s late winner.

Forward Antoine Semenyo credited the team’s improved pressing after halftime for turning the match in their favour.

“Panama controlled possession well in the first half and made things difficult for us. In the second half we pressed higher, created more problems and eventually got the goal,” he said.

The win puts Ghana top of Group L after England defeated Croatia 4-2 earlier on Wednesday. Panama, meanwhile, remain without a point and face an uphill battle to reach the knockout stage.

For Ghana, the dramatic victory provides a valuable boost as they continue their quest for a place in the last 16.