I’ll Play anywhere for Ghana – Panama Match-winner Caleb Yirenkyi

Black Stars midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi says he is prepared to play wherever he is needed for Ghana, insisting that representing his country is more important than the position he occupies on the pitch.

The 22-year-old was Ghana’s hero in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scoring a dramatic stoppage-time winner to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama and hand the Black Stars a perfect start to their Group L campaign.

Yirenkyi’s versatility has been a key feature of his international career. Under former head coach Otto Addo, he was often deployed at right-back, a tactical decision that sparked debate among supporters and pundits who believed his qualities were better suited to central midfield.

Since Carlos Queiroz took charge, however, Yirenkyi has returned to his preferred midfield role, where his performances have flourished. His growing influence has also been reflected in front of goal, with the winner against Panama marking his second goal for Ghana and his first on the World Cup stage.

Despite the discussion surrounding his best position, the midfielder says he has no preference as long as he can contribute to the team’s success.

“I’m just quite happy to serve my nation anywhere on the field. I don’t really mind. Just do the job,” Yirenkyi said after the victory.

The result leaves Ghana second in Group L, behind England, who opened their campaign with a 4-2 win over Croatia.

The Black Stars now turn their attention to a blockbuster clash against England at Gillette Stadium on June 23, before rounding off their group-stage campaign against Croatia four days later.

Buoyed by a winning start, Carlos Queiroz’s side will be aiming to maintain their momentum and secure a place in the World Cup knockout stages for the first time since their historic quarter-final run at the 2010 tournament.

Jamaldeen Wiayuka

See Full Bio