Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has commended the determination, discipline and tactical maturity of his players following their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening Group L match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Black Stars were made to work tirelessly at Toronto’s BMO Field on Wednesday as Panama enjoyed lengthy spells of possession and dictated much of the tempo. Ghana found it difficult to establish their attacking rhythm for large portions of the contest and were forced to remain patient against a well-organised opponent.
Despite the challenges, the four-time African champions remained focused on their game plan and were rewarded in dramatic fashion deep into stoppage time. Caleb Yirenkyi emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal to hand Ghana all three points and a memorable start to their World Cup campaign.
The victory marked a successful World Cup debut for Queiroz as Ghana coach, and the experienced Portuguese tactician revealed that his side had anticipated a difficult battle against a technically gifted Panamanian team.
Speaking after the match, Queiroz praised the fighting spirit displayed by his players.
“We battled like warriors,” Queiroz told ITV during a post-match interview.
The former Real Madrid manager also highlighted the intelligence and patience that underpinned Ghana’s approach to the game.
“We won the game with our brains. First, we had to suffer against a great team.”
Queiroz acknowledged Panama’s quality and explained that Ghana’s strategy was built around absorbing pressure before striking when the opportunity presented itself.
“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,” he added.
The result leaves Ghana second in Group L after the opening round of matches, with England occupying top spot following their 4-2 victory over Croatia.
The Black Stars now turn their attention to a crucial showdown against England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before wrapping up their group-stage campaign against Croatia on June 27.
Buoyed by their winning start, Ghana will be hoping to build momentum and strengthen their chances of progressing beyond the group stage as they seek their first appearance in the knockout rounds since their historic quarter-final run at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
