2026 World Cup: We can achieve something special after win over Panama - Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz insists

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz believes his side are capable of achieving something significant at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a narrow opening victory over Panama.

The four-time African champions began their campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 success at BMO Field in Toronto, where Caleb Yirenkyi struck a late winner to secure all three points despite a largely difficult outing in which Panama controlled much of the contest.

Ghana struggled to impose themselves in the first half but improved after the break, eventually finding the breakthrough in stoppage time to seal a vital win in Group L.

"With the ​football we played today, we can count on Ghana to do something," the former Egypt, Iran and Colombia boss told the press after the game.

The game also came with concern for Ghana after goalkeeper Ati Zigi was forced off at half-time following a collision.

He was replaced by Benjamin Asare, raising doubts over his availability for the upcoming fixture against England.

"Not sure," Queiroz said. "It is early, and ​this kind of injury, ​it is only after 24 to 48 hours that we can be ​sure."

Queiroz, who was not initially expected to lead Ghana into the tournament, took charge in April after the dismissal of Otto Addo in March following a run of poor results.

The win places Ghana second in Group L behind England, who opened their campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia.

Attention now turns to a crucial showdown with England at Gillette Stadium on June 23, before Ghana wrap up their group stage against Croatia four days later.

With three points already secured, Queiroz’s side will be aiming to build momentum as they chase a first knockout-stage appearance since their memorable quarter-final run at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.