World Cup 2026: Antoine Semenyo Named Man-of-the-Match After Slim victory Over Panama
· YEN.com.gh News · Join- Antoine Semenyo earned the Man of the Match award after playing a major role in Ghana’s hard-fought victory over Panama
- Caleb Yirenkyi became the hero with a dramatic stoppage-time goal that secured Ghana’s first three points
- The Black Stars showed resilience under pressure, overcoming setbacks to start their World Cup campaign with a crucial win
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Ghana international Antoine Semenyo was named Man of the Match after the Black Stars opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a narrow victory over Panama in Toronto.
The West African giants secured a crucial three points thanks to Caleb Yirenkyi’s dramatic stoppage-time winner, giving Ghana the perfect start to their tournament journey.
Source: Getty Images
According to Sports Mole, the victory has significantly changed Ghana’s outlook in Group L ahead of their upcoming clashes against England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.
With three points already secured, the Black Stars can now realistically target qualification as one of the best third-placed teams, a possibility that would have become much more difficult if they had settled for a draw against Panama.
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The path to victory was anything but straightforward. Carlos Queiroz’s side experienced a rollercoaster of emotions before finally finding the breakthrough, with Semenyo playing a key role by releasing substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante, who delivered the assist for Yirenkyi’s decisive finish deep into stoppage time.
Watch Yirenkyi's stoppage-time goal, as shared on X:
Semenyo earns Man of the Match award
According to Ghanasoccernet, Semenyo was recognised as the standout performer after producing a complete display to help Ghana overcome a difficult Panama side.
The Manchester City forward was a constant danger throughout the match, using his pace, creativity and relentless energy to trouble the Panamanian defence from beginning to end.
Although many fans felt Caleb Yirenkyi deserved the award after scoring the dramatic winning goal, FIFA’s technical study team selected Semenyo based on his overall contribution.
Source: Getty Images
His performance was crucial in helping the Black Stars recover from a slow first half, create more attacking threat after the break and eventually secure a vital World Cup victory.
The Man of the Match recognition further strengthens Semenyo’s growing reputation on the international stage and gives Ghana a major confidence boost ahead of their tougher challenges against England and Croatia.
After receiving his award and granting interviews, Semenyo moved to celebrate his award and the team's win with his fiancée.
The two hugged and kissed as Jordeen Buckley held the award and congratulated her partner the best way she could.
The lovebirds looked happy to be with each other for that short moment. In their photos, one could tell that they were so much into each other.
Semenyo’s fiancée arrives in Canada
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Jordeen Buckley touched down in Toronto, Canada, to support her partner and star player for the senior national team.
Documenting her journey from the UK to Canada, Jordeen showed the moment she packed up and headed to the airport in the UK for a flight en route to Canada.
She was then seen aboard the flight, followed by her subsequent arrival in Canada.
Source: YEN.com.gh