Ghana secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama thanks to a stoppage-time winner from Caleb Yirenkyi, denying the Central Americans what would have been a precious World Cup point. The Black Stars were frustrated for long spells by a disciplined and well-organised Panama side, who kept their shape and limited clear chances throughout.

The match had long looked set to end in a goalless draw, with Ghana dominating possession but struggling to find a way through a compact defence. Panama, for their part, defended resolutely and threatened sporadically on the counter-attack, keeping Lawrence Ati Zigi alert on a handful of occasions.

Just as both sides appeared to be settling for a point, Yirenkyi struck deep into stoppage time to settle a tight and hard-fought contest. The late goal broke Panama’s resistance and ensured Ghana made a winning start to their campaign.

(FRANCE 24 with AFP)