TORONTO (AP) — Ghana claimed a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening World Cup Group L clash on Wednesday, with Caleb Yirenkyi scoring in the fifth minute of stoppage time to spark wild celebrations among thousands of Ghanaian fans in Toronto.
The match had been an attritional battle, with both sides struggling to create clear chances. Panama’s Cecilio Waterman forced an early save from Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi, while the Black Stars failed to register a shot on target in the first half.
The second half, played under steady rain, saw more attacking intent. Panama’s Cristian Martinez nearly broke the deadlock in the 60th minute, but his shot hit the side netting. Just as the game seemed destined for a scoreless draw, Yirenkyi bundled in the winner, sending Ghana’s veteran coach Carlos Queiroz into jubilant celebration with the fans.
Queiroz, who took charge of Ghana only months before the tournament, made history by becoming the second coach to appear in five consecutive World Cups, after leading Portugal in 2010 and Iran in 2014, 2018 and 2022.
Ghana’s triumph came despite the absence of Villarreal midfielder Thomas Partey, who was denied a Canadian visa due to his ongoing trial in Britain on rape charges.
In Group K action, Colombia defeated debutants Uzbekistan 3-1 in Mexico City, with Luis Diaz inspiring the win before 80,824 spectators at the Estadio Azteca. Diaz provided an assist, scored once, and hit the post in a standout performance. Daniel Munoz volleyed Colombia ahead, Abbosbek Fayzullaev equalized with Uzbekistan’s first-ever World Cup goal, but Diaz restored the lead before Jaminton Campaz sealed victory with a late header.
The result put Colombia top of Group K, which also includes Portugal and the Democratic Republic of Congo, who drew 1-1 earlier.
Ghana’s late win and Colombia’s strong start underline the intensity of the early group stage, with both African and Latin American teams showing resilience and flair on football’s biggest stage.
