World Cup 2026: Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz embraces England challenge

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has challenged his players to prepare for a demanding encounter against England after beginning their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a hard-fought win over Panama.

The Black Stars secured a dramatic 1-0 victory in Toronto on Wednesday, with midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi emerging as the hero after scoring deep into stoppage time.

Ghana were made to work for every inch by a spirited Panama side and looked set to settle for a draw before a late breakthrough changed the outcome. The Black Stars remained disciplined throughout the contest and were rewarded for their persistence in the closing moments.

The decisive goal came after substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante sparked a swift counterattack and delivered a precise pass into the box. Yirenkyi timed his run perfectly before calmly finishing past the goalkeeper to hand Ghana all three points.

Looking ahead to the highly anticipated clash with England, Queiroz stressed that success at the World Cup requires sacrifice and resilience.

“We have to be prepared to suffer. There is no other way,” he said. “Players must be willing to make sacrifices and pay the price because victories at the World Cup come at a very high cost. Fortunately, this group is ready for that challenge.”

The win gives Ghana an early advantage in Group L and provides momentum ahead of their next fixture against England, who also opened their campaign with victory over Croatia.