Yirenkyi snatches it for Ghana against Panama in the 90th minute (1-0)
Caleb Yirenkyi scored the only goal in the 90th minute to hand Ghana an agonising win over Panama in Toronto.
Ghana claimed three golden points by beating Panama 1-0 in a 2026 World Cup Group L match that looked destined for a draw until the most unexpected hero emerged. Toronto's BMO Field in Canada, an intimate 43,036-seat ground beside Lake Ontario known for its closeness between fans and pitch, witnessed an electric finish.
The contest was a long tactical battle with few clear chances, until in the 90th minute Caleb Yirenkyi settled it with the game's only goal. The midfielder, who had curiously been booked back in the 16th minute, went from potential villain to outright saviour for the Black Stars.
The tension of the closing stages showed in Panama's cards: César Blackman (72') and Carlos Harvey (90') were cautioned as the Central Americans chased an equaliser, in vain against a patient Ghana.
Carlos Queiroz lined his Ghana up in a 4-4-1-1 with Lawrence Ati-Zigi in goal and the experience of Jordan Ayew up front, supported by Antoine Semenyo and Kamaldeen Sulemana. Thomas Christiansen answered with a brave 3-4-3 for Panama, with Orlando Mosquera in goal and Michael Murillo and José Rodríguez as the most advanced men.
The win puts Ghana in a prime position in Group L at this 48-team World Cup hosted by the USA, Mexico and Canada, while Panama leave Toronto with the bitter feeling of having given everything only to fall at the death.