World Cup 2026: Jordan Ayew credits patience after Ghana snatch late win over Panama

Ghana captain Jordan Ayew credited patience and perseverance after the Black Stars secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Caleb Yirenkyi emerged as the hero for Ghana, scoring deep into stoppage time after Brandon Thomas-Asante surged forward and delivered a low cross into the six-yard area.

The result rewarded a disciplined Ghana performance in which the four-time African champions spent long periods defending against an energetic Panama side backed by a passionate travelling support.

Panama created the better openings in the first half, with Lawrence Ati Zigi producing a number of key saves before he was forced off at the interval following a collision.

Ghana gradually improved after the break and looked increasingly dangerous as the match wore on, eventually finding the breakthrough in the 95th minute.

Ayew said the team understood the importance of staying composed even when momentum appeared to favour Panama.

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

"Obviously, football is like that. Sometimes you have difficult spells, but you just need to stay in the game. That's what we did.

"At the end of the day, we won the game. That's the most important thing."

The victory gives Ghana a strong foundation in Group L ahead of their next World Cup assignment against England in Boston.