Ghana Scores Late to Beat Panama in World Cup 2026 Group L Clash

The match between Ghana and Panama wasn’t the most polished from Ghana’s side, but it was enough. Caleb Yirenkyi emerged as the decisive player, scoring deep into stoppage time to secure a 1-0 win for Ghana in their Group L encounter at the 2026 World Cup.

Match highlights and stats

Panama put up a fierce challenge and dominated possession with 63% compared to Ghana’s 37%. They also led in shots, taking 11 attempts to Ghana’s 8. Despite Panama creating more clear chances throughout the game, they couldn’t find the net.

Ghana’s persistence paid off late thanks to an impressive run by Brandon Thomas-Asante, who maneuvered past a defender to enter Panama’s danger zone. He then set up Caleb Yirenkyi, who finished the move with a composed strike in the 95th minute. The goal brought the crowd and Ghana’s bench to life with jubilation.

Implications for Group L standings

This result hands Ghana their first win in regulation time in World Cup history and places them alongside England, both sitting on three points after England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia earlier the same day.

For Panama, this was a chance to earn their first World Cup point following a tough debut in 2018 where they lost all three matches. Instead, they left with nothing, facing a setback in their campaign.

What’s next for Ghana?

Ghana now holds a promising spot in the group with two crucial matches ahead. They face England on June 23, then confront Croatia on June 27 in what could be a decisive match for advancing out of the group stage.