World Cup 2026: Five Black Stars players make World Cup debuts against Panama

Five Ghana internationals will make their FIFA World Cup debuts after being named in Carlos Queiroz's starting XI for the Black Stars' opening Group L match against Panama in Toronto.

Defenders Marvin Senaya, Jonas Adjetey, and Jerome Opoku, midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi, and winger Ernest Nuamah will all feature in a World Cup match for the first time as Ghana begin their fifth appearance at the global tournament.

The biggest talking point is Yirenkyi's inclusion in midfield following Thomas Partey's enforced absence. The FC Nordsjaelland youngster earned his opportunity after coming off the bench to score in Ghana's 1-1 draw with Wales in the team's final warm-up match.

At the back, Senaya, Adjetey and Opoku have all been trusted with starting roles despite their lack of World Cup experience, underlining Queiroz's faith in the new generation.

Nuamah also gets the nod in attack after impressing in the game in Cardiff, joining captain Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo and Kamaldeen Sulemana in a dynamic front line.

The remaining starters bring valuable international experience, with Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Gideon Mensah, Elisha Owusu and Jordan Ayew expected to provide leadership alongside the five debutants.

For Ghana's newest World Cup players, the Panama clash marks the beginning of what they hope will be memorable careers on football's biggest stage.