Ghana Edge Panama With Last-Gasp Goal in Fiery World Cup Encounter

Ghana secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in a fiercely contested FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L match, thanks to a stoppage-time strike from midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi. The late winner capped an intense contest that featured missed chances, physical battles and heated exchanges between players.

Panama dominated much of the first half and looked the more dangerous side going forward. Their attackers repeatedly tested Ghana’s defence, creating several promising opportunities. However, Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi delivered an impressive performance, making a series of crucial saves to keep his side in the game. Despite enjoying greater possession and creating better chances, Panama failed to find a breakthrough before halftime.

Ghana struggled to gain momentum in the opening stages but gradually improved after the interval. The African side became more organised and began to threaten on the counterattack as the match turned into a hard-fought midfield battle. The physical nature of the contest resulted in frequent stoppages, with players from both teams involved in a number of confrontations.

As the game appeared headed for a goalless draw, Ghana produced a decisive moment deep into stoppage time. Brandon Thomas-Asante launched a swift counterattack and delivered a precise pass into the penalty area. Yirenkyi timed his run perfectly and calmly slotted the ball past the Panama goalkeeper in the 95th minute, sparking jubilant celebrations among Ghanaian players and supporters.

Tensions flared immediately after the goal, with players from both teams becoming involved in heated exchanges before the final whistle. The victory earned Ghana three valuable points and moved them level with England at the top of Group L. For Panama, the defeat was a bitter blow after a strong performance that many believed deserved at least a share of the points.