2026 World Cup: Ghana snatch late win, Díaz inspires Colombia, Kane bags brace for England

Caleb Yirenkyi scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner as Ghana edged Panama 1-0 in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The midfielder struck in the 95th minute to hand the Black Stars all three points in a closely contested encounter at Toronto Stadium. Ghana were without Thomas Partey, who was omitted from the […]

Caleb Yirenkyi scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner as Ghana edged Panama 1-0 in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The midfielder struck in the 95th minute to hand the Black Stars all three points in a closely contested encounter at Toronto Stadium.

Ghana were without Thomas Partey, who was omitted from the squad after being denied entry due to an ongoing criminal case in the United Kingdom. The Black Stars struggled to create clear-cut chances for much of the game before eventually finding the breakthrough.

Panama threatened early, with Cecilio Waterman forcing a save, while Jiovany Ramos fired over from a rebound. Cristian Martínez also came close but could only find the side netting.

Ghana’s best opportunity before the winner came when Brandon Thomas-Asante delivered a dangerous cross that was cleared just before Jordan Ayew could tap into an empty net.

The decisive moment arrived deep into stoppage time when Yirenkyi converted from close range following another inviting delivery from Thomas-Asante. The 95th-minute strike is the latest goal scored by any team at the tournament so far.

The victory leaves Ghana second in Group L behind England on goal difference.

England opened their campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia, as Thomas Tuchel’s side proved too strong in an entertaining six-goal contest. Harry Kane scored twice, while Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford were also on target for the Three Lions.

Elsewhere, Colombia began their World Cup campaign with a 3-1 win over tournament debutants Uzbekistan.

Daniel Muñoz gave the South Americans the lead in the 40th minute before Abbosbek Fayzullaev equalised on the hour mark. However, Colombia responded quickly, with Luis Díaz restoring their advantage five minutes later.

Jaminton Campaz added a third goal in the 90th minute to seal a convincing victory and ensure Colombia made a winning start to the competition.