HISTORY: Jordan Ayew set to become Ghana's oldest-ever FIFA World Cup player against Panama

Ghana captain Jordan Ayew is on the verge of making history when the Black Stars take on Panama in their opening Group L encounter of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday.

The experienced forward is expected to become the oldest player ever to represent Ghana at a FIFA World Cup, surpassing the previous record held by Denis Odoi.

Ayew will be aged 34 years and 279 days at kickoff, eclipsing Odoi's mark of 34 years and 185 days, which was set during Ghana's clash with South Korea at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The milestone is another remarkable achievement in the career of one of Ghana's most enduring football figures.

Since making his senior debut for the Black Stars over a decade ago, Ayew has remained a key figure for the national team through multiple generations of players.

Wednesday's encounter will also see the captain make his third FIFA World Cup appearance, drawing level with some of Ghana's greatest football icons.

Ayew will join his brother Andre Ayew, legendary striker Asamoah Gyan and former midfielder Sulley Muntari as the only Ghanaian players to feature in three different World Cup tournaments.

Having represented Ghana at the 2014, 2022 and now 2026 editions of the global showpiece, Ayew's longevity at the highest level underlines his importance to the national team.

As captain, the former Leicester City forward carries the hopes of a nation eager for a strong start in Group L, which also includes England and Croatia.

His leadership, experience and wealth of international knowledge will be crucial as Ghana seek to navigate a challenging group and progress to the knockout stages.

Wednesday's match against Panama is more than just another World Cup appearance for Jordan Ayew.

It is an opportunity to etch his name even deeper into Ghana football history while leading the Black Stars on football's grandest stage at the BMO Field in Toronto.