World Cup 2026: Yirenkyi joins Diallo as only injury-time scorers at tournament

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has delivered its fair share of drama, and Caleb Yirenkyi is right at the heart of it.

The 20-year-old Ghanaian made history on Wednesday, scoring a dramatic stoppage-time winner against Panama to become the Black Stars' youngest-ever goalscorer in tournament history.

His 92nd-minute strike at BMO Field in Toronto not only secured three vital Group L points but also highlighted a growing trend at this year's tournament.

The only two winning goals scored in the 90th minute or later at the 2026 World Cup so far have both been decisive 1-0 victories for African nations. Yirenkyi's goal for Ghana against Panama followed Amad Diallo's dramatic late winner for Côte d'Ivoire against Ecuador.

Two African nations. Two stoppage-time strikes. Two 1-0 victories.

It's a testament to the resilience, fitness, and never-say-die attitude that has come to define the continent's presence at World Cups. Both Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire were under pressure in their respective matches, yet both found their hero in the dying embers of the game.

At 20 years and 153 days old, Yirenkyi broke a record that had stood for exactly two decades, surpassing Asamoah Gyan's mark of 20 years and 207 days. He also became the 10th different Ghanaian player to score at a World Cup, with his goal marking the Black Stars' 19th overall in the tournament.

Ghana will face England on June 23 in Boston, while Côte d'Ivoire continue their campaign against Serbia. But for now, the message is clear: when the clock hits 90, Africa delivers.