Ghana snatched a dramatic late victory over Panama in their opening Group L match of the World Cup, with Caleb Yirenkyi emerging as the hero after scoring deep into stoppage time to hand the Black Stars a priceless 1-0 win.
With the contest seemingly heading for a goalless draw, Ghana produced one decisive moment of quality in the 95th minute. Carlos Queiroz’s side broke forward through Antoine Semenyo, whose pass found Brandon Thomas-Asante in space. The striker surged past his marker and drove into the penalty area before delivering a perfectly weighted cutback across goal. Arriving at the right place at the right time, Yirenkyi calmly tapped home from close range to spark wild celebrations among the Ghanaian players and supporters.
The goal came after the referee had indicated six minutes of additional time, and it proved enough to separate two evenly matched sides. Yirenkyi, who had earlier been booked in the 16th minute, went from cautioned midfielder to national hero with a finish that could prove crucial in Ghana’s quest to advance from the group stage.
Panama threw everything forward in a desperate search for an equaliser and almost found one in the dying moments. Deep into stoppage time, they won a corner kick and packed the Ghana penalty area. The delivery caused problems, but goalkeeper Benjamin Asare produced a vital save to preserve the lead. As the Ghana shot-stopper lay on the turf after gathering the ball, Panama’s Harvey recklessly caught him with a late boot and was shown a yellow card by the referee.
The incident heightened tensions inside the stadium, particularly as Ghana had already lost one goalkeeper to injury and could not afford another setback between the posts. Fortunately for the Black Stars, Asare was able to continue and see out the remaining seconds as Ghana held firm for a hard-fought victory.
The result gives Ghana an important three points and valuable momentum ahead of a daunting clash against England. After weathering Panama’s challenge and finding a winner at the death, the Black Stars head into their next fixture with renewed confidence and a welcome sense of relief.
