Carlos Queiroz is the Black Stars coach
Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has heaped praise on his players following the Black Stars' narrow victory over Panama in their 2026 World Cup opening game on Wednesday night.
The West African football heavyweights left it late to secure the maximum three points, with midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi slotting home the match-winner deep into stoppage time.
The Black Stars were pushed to their limits by a determined Panama side in Toronto, but the team showed resilience, composure and character to claim all three points in a match that looked destined to end in a goalless draw.
Substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante launched a rapid counterattack before delivering a perfectly weighted pass into the penalty area. Arriving at exactly the right moment was Yirenkyi, who calmly slotted the ball home to send the Ghana supporters into wild celebrations
After the game, the former Real Madrid tactician eulogised his players for their outstanding performance.
"It means three points. That's it. We've won the first half, but now we still have to play the second and third halves of this important tournament. But I'm so happy for the boys. So happy." He said after the match.
The victory gives Ghana a perfect start to their World Cup campaign and places them in a strong position in Group L following England’s victory over Croatia. The result also provides a major confidence boost ahead of the Black Stars’ next challenge against England.
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