Ghana vs Panama: "We won the game with our brains” – Coach Queiroz

Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz said his side “won the game with our brains” after Caleb Yirenkyi’s dramatic late goal secured a 1-0 victory over Panama in the Black Stars’ opening match of the 2026 World Cup.

With the game seemingly heading for a draw at Toronto’s BMO Field, Yirenkyi struck in the 90th minute to hand Ghana all three points and a winning start to their Group L campaign.

The Black Stars had been frustrated for much of the contest by a disciplined Panama side, but Queiroz was pleased with the patience and tactical discipline shown by his players.

“We won the game with our brains,” the Portuguese coach said after the match.

Ghana controlled large periods of possession but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities against Panama’s organised defence.

Their task became more complicated in the second half when goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi was forced off through injury, leading to a World Cup debut for Hearts of Oak shot-stopper Benjamin Asare.

Despite the setback, the Black Stars maintained their shape and continued to probe for an opening.

Queiroz’s decision to deploy a structured 4-2-3-1 formation ultimately paid off as Ghana remained patient and disciplined before finding the breakthrough in the closing moments.

The victory leaves Ghana well placed in Group L ahead of a much-anticipated meeting with England, who are among the favourites to progress from the group.