World Cup 2026: Ghana can achieve something special after late win over Panama – Carlos Queiroz

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has expressed confidence that his side can “achieve something special” after grinding out a narrow 1-0 victory over Panama in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener at BMO Field in Toronto.

The four-time African champions laboured through a difficult contest, struggling to impose themselves in the first half before improving after the break. Their persistence was rewarded deep into stoppage time when Caleb Yirenkyi struck the decisive goal to secure all three points, despite Panama enjoying long spells of dominance.

Speaking after the match, Queiroz praised the mentality of his players, suggesting there is more to come from the team. “With the football we played today, we can count on Ghana to do something,” the veteran coach said.

Ghana were forced into a second-half change in goal after Ati Zigi suffered a collision, with Benjamin Asare stepping in to see out the match. Queiroz admitted uncertainty over Zigi’s availability for the upcoming clash against England, saying further assessment would be needed within 24 to 48 hours.

“It is early, and with this kind of injury, it is only after 24 to 48 hours that we can be sure,” he noted.

Queiroz, who was not initially expected to lead Ghana at the tournament, took charge in April following the dismissal of Otto Addo in March after a run of poor results.

The win places Ghana second in Group L behind England, who opened their campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia. The Black Stars now turn their attention to a high-stakes encounter against England at Gillette Stadium on June 23, before concluding their group fixtures against Croatia four days later.

With three points already secured, Ghana will be aiming to build momentum as they pursue a return to the knockout stages for the first time since their memorable quarter-final run at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.