Accra, Ghana — June 18, 2026 – In a thrilling opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Ghana’s Black Stars emerged victorious with a 1-0 win against Panama in Toronto.
The decisive goal was scored by Caleb Yirenkyi in the dying minutes of the game, propelling Ghana to the top of Group L, alongside England. Despite the absence of key midfielder Thomas Partey, who was unable to obtain a visa due to ongoing rape charges in the UK, the Black Stars showcased resilience and determination.
The match was a testament to their tactical prowess, as they outplayed Panama for the majority of the game. Ghana’s head coach, Carlos Queiroz, praised the team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of mental strength. “We won the game with our brains.
They know how to play. We knew they would control the game, “Queiroz commented.
The victory was particularly sweet for Ghana, considering the absence of Partey, a pivotal player for the team.
The 20-year-old Yirenkyi, who scored the late winner, has proven to be a rising talent within the Ghanaian squad.
The Black Stars will now face England in their next match, scheduled for June 23 in Massachusetts.
The upcoming game is expected to be a challenging encounter, but the morale of the team is high after their win over Panama.
As the tournament progresses, Ghana will be aiming to build on this momentum and secure a spot in the knockout stages.
The victory over Panama has been a significant morale booster for the team and its fans, who are optimistic about the team’s prospects in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africanews
Source: Rédaction Africanews
