Ghana began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in Toronto on Wednesday, while Colombia secured a 3-1 win over debutants Uzbekistan in Mexico City.
Yirenkyi’s Late Goal Hands Ghana Winning Start
Caleb Yirenkyi emerged the hero for the Black Stars, scoring deep into stoppage time to seal all three points in their Group L opener.
The decisive goal came in the fifth minute of added time when Yirenkyi bundled the ball home, sparking wild celebrations among Ghanaian supporters who packed the Toronto Stadium.
The game had been a tense and physical contest with few clear-cut chances. Panama threatened early when Cecilio Waterman forced goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi into action in just the second minute.
Ghana struggled to create opportunities in the opening half and failed to register a shot on target before the break.
The second half, played under heavy rain, produced more attacking moments. Panama came close in the 60th minute when Cristian Martinez fired into the side netting, prompting loud celebrations from the Panamanian fans.
With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Yirenkyi struck in the closing seconds to hand Ghana a valuable victory.
Veteran coach Carlos Queiroz celebrated passionately with supporters after the goal. The Portuguese tactician, who only took charge of the Black Stars months before the tournament, became just the second manager to appear at five consecutive World Cups.
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Ghana played without midfielder Thomas Partey, who was denied entry into Canada due to an ongoing legal case in Britain.
Diaz Shines as Colombia Defeat Uzbekistan
In Group K, Colombia overcame World Cup newcomers Uzbekistan 3-1 at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
Bayern Munich star Luis Diaz was the standout performer, contributing a goal and an assist while also hitting the woodwork.
Diaz's brilliant chipped pass set up Daniel Munoz, who volleyed Colombia into the lead in the 40th minute.
Uzbekistan responded strongly and made history when Abbosbek Fayzullaev scored the country's first-ever World Cup goal, reacting quickest to convert a rebound after Eldor Shomurodov's effort had been saved.
Colombia restored their advantage through Diaz, whose effort slipped past goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov.
Substitute Jaminton Campaz sealed the victory in stoppage time with a well-taken header.
The result sends Colombia to the top of Group K, ahead of Portugal and the Democratic Republic of Congo, who earlier played out a 1-1 draw.
