Head Coach of the Black Stars, Carlos Queiroz, has lauded the performance of the team in their 2026 World Cup opener against Panama, saying their injury-time winner was due to their resilience and “brains”.
A stoppage-time strike from Caleb Yirenkyi at the Toronto Stadium handed Ghana all three points in Group L, despite Panama controlling large spells of the contest and looking the more comfortable side for much of the tie.
In the first department of the game, the Black Stars were outplayed by their Panama counterparts who secured most of the possession, with Ghana settling for only 35 per cent possession and failing to register a single shot in the process.
Meanwhile, Panama had controlled 65 per cent of the ball and created better opportunities.
Reacting to the results after the game, coach Queiroz, who registered his first victory with the Black Stars at the World Cup, admitted his side had to endure long periods without possession before executing their game plan.
“We battled like warriors,” Queiroz told ITV during a post-match interview.
“We won the game with our brains. First we had to suffer against a great team.
“They know how to play. We knew they would control the game. But step by step, our strategy was to let them come. This is the way to win.”
Ghana’s victory leaves them second in Group L, behind England, who beat Croatia 4-2 earlier on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.
The Black Stars face the Three Lions on 23 June, while Panama will look to bounce back against Croatia.
Caleb Yirenkyi injury-time goal gives Black Stars flying start at 2026 FIFA World Cup
