World Cup – Irenki scores a stoppage-time winner, Ghana 1-0 Panama in their opening match.

In the first round of Group L of the 2026 World Cup, Ghana faced Panama at BMO Stadium in Toronto, Canada. They ultimately defeated their opponents 1-0, temporarily placing them second in the group due to goal difference.

Ghana and Panama had lackluster performances in the first half, with both of their only threatening attacks originating from the weaker Panama side. Just one minute into the game, Amir Murillo's long pass into the penalty area was met by Cecilio Waterman, whose volley was brilliantly saved by Lawrence Arti Ziggi. In the 37th minute, Cristian Martinez's cross from the right was parried by Ziggi, and Siovani Ramos' follow-up shot went over the crossbar.

After the break, both sides gradually intensified their attacks. In the 47th minute, Kamaluddin Suleymana cut inside from the left and delivered a lobbed pass, but Jonas Ajetti's header in the box was saved by Orlando Mosquera. In the 49th minute, Jerome Opokour sent a long pass from the back, and Caleb Ilenki broke into the box but his shot went wildly high. In the 59th minute, Carlos Xavi's cross-shot from the edge of the box found Cristian Martinez, whose powerful shot went just wide.

In the 63rd minute, Azarias Rondonho passed the ball to the left wing, and Cesar Blackman's curling shot was easily saved by substitute Benjamin Asare. In the 66th minute, Irenki delivered a cross from the right side of the penalty area, and Jordan Ayew's sliding shot was blocked by Ramos. In the 72nd minute, Ayew took a free kick from the right side of the attacking third, and Ajetti's header at the far post went wide to the left. In the 84th minute, Rondonho headed the ball across, and Ismail Diaz's long-range shot was also easily caught by Asare.

In the fifth minute of second-half stoppage time, Brandon Thomas Asante broke down the left flank and delivered a cross, which Irenki tapped in to seal the victory. Thanks to Irenki's crucial goal, Ghana ultimately secured a 1-0 win over Panama, celebrating a winning start to the season.

Image source: Internet