Yirenkyi 9, Jordan 5: Black Stars player ratings against Panama

In what appeared to be a mixed performance from the Black Stars, some players impressed throughout the game while others struggled, but Ghana ultimately secured victory.

Caleb Yirenkyi’s last-minute goal edged Ghana past Panama in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Toronto on June 17, 2026.

The first-half performance was poor, but head coach Carlos Queiroz’s substitutions changed the dynamics and helped the team clinch the win.

2026 FIFA World Cup: Watch highlights of Black Stars’ 95th-minute victory against Panama

This article highlights the ratings of the Black Stars players based on their performances and contributions to the game.

Starting XI:

Lawrence Ati-Zigi (7/10): The goalkeeper made decent saves to keep Ghana in the game as Panama created chances and mounted pressure. He was subbed off at half-time due to injury.

Jerome Opoku (7/10): Solid at the back, making timely clearances and tackles. Despite limited appearances for the team, he proved his worth.

Jonas Adjetey (7/10): Instrumental in central defense alongside Opoku, denying Panama penetration. However, some poor ball control led to unnecessary pressure.

Marvin Senaya (6/10): Defensively solid but occasionally lost his marker. He surged forward to support attacks but lost possession sometimes.

Gideon Mensah (5.5/10): The left-back was beaten by his marker on multiple occasions and contributed little to the attack.

Elisha Owusu (6/10): The AJ Auxerre midfielder had a decent game but failed to control the midfield effectively.

Kamaldeen Sulemana (5/10): His pace was expected to be decisive in transitions, but he was caught off guard often and lost possession frequently, hindering attacks.

Caleb Yirenkyi (9/10): Energetic from the start, pressing and winning balls to stabilize midfield. Crowned his performance with the winning goal.

Ernest Nuamah (6/10): The Olympique Lyonnais midfielder attempted to create chances but was largely ineffective.

Antoine Semenyo (6/10): The Manchester City forward’s influence was limited for most of the game, but his pass set up Thomas-Asante, who assisted Yirenkyi’s winner.

Jordan Ayew (5.5/10): The captain struggled with ball control and creativity, often dispossessed easily.

Substitutes:

Benjamin Asare (6/10): The Hearts of Oak goalkeeper was not tested much but handled dangerous balls well.

Fatawu Issahaku (6/10): The Leicester winger was a constant threat on the flanks, dribbling to create chances in the final third.

Brandon Thomas-Asante (7/10): Operating from the left wing, he created opportunities and provided the decisive assist for Yirenkyi’s winner.

Prince Kwabena Adu (3/10): Replaced Jordan Ayew but had limited touches. Looked decent with the few he managed.

SB/JE

Watch as Ghanaians jubilate massively after Black Stars win over Panama