Keep believing – Jordan Ayew to Ghana fans after dramatic victory over Panama

Ghana captain Jordan Ayew has urged supporters to continue believing in the Black Stars after they opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama in Toronto.

Caleb Yirenkyi emerged as Ghana’s hero, scoring deep into stoppage time to secure all three points after a tense contest that appeared destined to end goalless.

Panama caused the Black Stars numerous problems for much of the match and looked the more threatening side during the opening stages. Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi produced a series of important saves to keep his side in the game before he was forced off at half-time following a collision late in the first half.

The Black Stars returned with greater purpose after the break, gradually taking control of proceedings. Jonas Adjetey came close to breaking the deadlock with a powerful header before Yirenkyi finally found the breakthrough in added time, finishing calmly after a swift counterattack.

Reflecting on the victory, Ayew admitted Ghana had to remain patient before making their decisive moment count.

“When our chances came, we took them. Obviously, we needed to be patient. We knew they would get tired.

“Football is like that. Sometimes you have difficult spells, but you just need to stay in the game. That’s what we did,” the Leicester City forward said.

Ayew also reserved special praise for the Ghanaian supporters, urging them to remain united behind the national team as they continue their World Cup journey.

“They should keep on pushing. Believe in the team. We will do our best to make something special,” he added.

The victory gives Ghana a positive start to life in Group L and provides a timely confidence boost ahead of a highly anticipated showdown with England, where another strong performance could move the Black Stars a step closer to the knockout stages.

Jamaldeen Wiayuka

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