Yirenkyi’s stoppage‑time winner gives Ghana 1–0 World Cup win over Panama

WorldFootball
18 Jun 2026 • 9:37 AM MYT
Malay Mail
Malay Mail

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Malay Mail

TORONTO, June 18 — Caleb Yirenkyi scored ‌deep into stoppage time to earn Ghana a 1-0 victory over Panama in World ‌Cup Group L yesterday, earning the African side a crucial three points in their bid to reach the knockout stage for the first time since 2010. Yirenkyi’s goal came in the 95th minute after Thomas-Asante skipped past Panama defender ‌Jose Cordoba and played a ⁠pass into the area, ⁠which the 20-year-old ⁠Yirenkyi bundled home. Panama ⁠threw ⁠everyone forward for a late free kick in a desperate attempt to ⁠get an equaliser, but Ghana hung on.

Cecilio Waterman’s curling strike in the second minute forced an excellent save from Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence ⁠Ati Zigi, who was replaced by Benjamin Asare at the start of ⁠the second half due to injury.

Ghana next ⁠face ⁠Group L leaders England. Panama will try to secure their first World Cup ‌win when they take on Croatia. — Reuters