World Cup 2026: Caleb Yirenkyi becomes Ghana’s second youngster scorer at World Cup

Caleb Yirenkyi announced himself on the biggest stage in world football on Wednesday night, scoring the decisive goal in Ghana’s 1-0 victory over Panama and writing his name into the Black Stars record books in the process.

The FC Nordsjaelland midfielder delivered when it mattered most in Toronto, helping Ghana begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a crucial victory in their opening Group L fixture.

Young Star Delivers on the World Stage

Yirenkyi was handed a starting role by Carlos Queiroz and produced an impressive performance across the full 90 minutes.

With the match heading towards its closing stages, the 20-year-old made a decisive run into the Panama penalty area before meeting a low cross from Brandon Thomas-Asante and calmly converting the chance to secure all three points for Ghana.

The goal sparked celebrations among the Black Stars players and supporters, with the young midfielder emerging as the hero of the night.

Second-Youngest Ghanaian Scorer at a World Cup

The strike ensured Yirenkyi secured a place in Ghana’s World Cup history.

At 20 years and five months old, he became the second-youngest Ghanaian player ever to score at a FIFA World Cup. Only Draman Haminu achieved the feat at a younger age, having found the net at 20 years and two months.

The milestone highlights the growing influence of one of Ghana’s brightest young talents and offers further encouragement for the future of the national team.

Another Record for the Black Stars Midfielder

Beyond becoming Ghana’s second-youngest World Cup scorer, Yirenkyi also achieved another remarkable distinction.

His goal made him the youngest teenager to score a winning goal for an African nation at the FIFA World Cup, adding another layer to an already memorable night in Toronto.

For a player still at the beginning of his international career, the achievement represents a significant statement of intent and reinforces his status as one of the emerging stars of Ghanaian football.

A Bright Future Ahead

Yirenkyi’s match-winning contribution not only handed Ghana a vital victory over Panama but also underlined the exciting potential within the current Black Stars squad.

With tougher Group L tests still to come, Ghana will be hoping their young midfielder can continue his impressive rise and play a key role in the nation’s quest for success at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.