Caleb Yirenkyi World Cup Goal Seals Ghana’s 1-0 Win Over Panama

Toronto Stadium – (Web Desk) – Caleb Yirenkyi scored a memorable World Cup goal in the fifth minute of stoppage time to hand Ghana a hard-fought 1-0 win over Panama in their Group L opener at Toronto Stadium on Wednesday, June 17.

The young Black Stars midfielder bundled the ball home from close range after a brilliant low cross from Brandon Thomas-Asante, sending the Ghanaian fans inside the packed stadium into wild celebrations.

It was a moment of pure drama. Panama had defended well for almost the entire match and looked set to earn their first-ever World Cup point. But Yirenkyi had other ideas.

The match was slow to get going. Panama came closest in the opening minutes when Cecilio Waterman fired a shot that Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi pushed away smartly. Ghana failed to register a single shot on target in the first half.

The second half was more open, played under heavy rain in Toronto. Panama nearly broke the deadlock in the 60th minute when Cristian Martinez lashed a shot that hit the side-netting.

But Ghana grew stronger as the clock ticked on. Coach Carlos Queiroz brought on fresh legs and pushed his side forward. The gamble paid off beautifully when Yirenkyi poked home in the 95th minute.

At just 20 years old, Yirenkyi became the second-youngest Ghanaian to ever score at a World Cup. It was a night he will never forget.

Queiroz, who only took charge of Ghana a few months ago, punched the air and turned to celebrate with the fans. The veteran coach made history himself, becoming only the second manager ever to appear at five straight World Cups.

Ghana were without key midfielder Thomas Partey, who was denied a Canadian visa due to ongoing rape charges he faces in Britain. His absence was felt but Yirenkyi more than filled the gap when it mattered most.

Ghana now sit at the top of Group L alongside England, who also won their opener. Next up for the Black Stars is a tough clash against England.