Caleb Yirenkyi becomes Ghana’s second youngest to score at World Cup after goal against Panama

Caleb Yirenkyi etched his name into Ghana’s World Cup history with a dramatic stoppage-time winner against Panama, becoming the Black Stars’ second-youngest goalscorer on football’s biggest stage.

The 20-year-old midfielder struck in the 95th minute to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory for Ghana in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, delivering a moment that combined history, heartbreak for Panama and hope for the Black Stars.

At 20 years and five months old, Yirenkyi now trails only Haminu Draman, who was 20 years and two months when he scored for Ghana at the 2006 World Cup. The goal places the youngster alongside some of the country’s most celebrated names in World Cup folklore.

For long periods, Ghana struggled to break down a disciplined Panama side and looked destined to begin their campaign with a disappointing draw. Carlos Quieroz men lacked creativity in attack, while Panama’s organised defence frustrated every attempt to find a breakthrough.

But with seconds remaining, substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante produced the decisive moment. Bursting down the flank, he delivered an inviting cross into the box where Yirenkyi arrived at precisely the right moment to steer home the winner.

As the ball hit the net, Ghana’s players erupted in celebration, knowing the goal had not only secured three valuable points but had also introduced a new World Cup hero.

The strike was the latest milestone in what is becoming a remarkable rise for Yirenkyi. Still only 20, the midfielder displayed composure beyond his years to deliver when his country needed him most.

His historic goal overshadowed an otherwise difficult evening for Ghana’s attack, with Antoine Semenyo and his teammates finding few clear openings against a stubborn Panama defence.

The match also marked a memorable occasion for goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, who became the first home-based goalkeeper to make a FIFA World Cup debut for Ghana after replacing the injured Lawrence Ati-Zigi.

Yet the night ultimately belonged to Yirenkyi.

In a tournament where defining moments often create legends, the young midfielder seized his opportunity. His late winner not only handed Ghana a dream start to their World Cup campaign but also secured his place in the nation’s football history as the second-youngest Black Star ever to score at the World Cup.

For Yirenkyi, it was a goal that may prove to be the beginning of something even bigger.

Jamaldeen Wiayuka

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