Ghana Edges Panama 1–0 in Late Toronto Drama

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Ghana survived a tense afternoon in Toronto to open their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 1–0 victory over Panama, with Caleb Ekuban's fifth-minute stoppage-time header delivering all three points — but the match will be remembered as much for who wasn't on the pitch as for what happened on it.

Thomas Partey, one of Ghana's most influential midfielders, was absent after Canadian authorities denied him a visa to enter the country. The administrative setback drew immediate attention given the tournament's tri-nation hosting arrangement: Partey's U.S. visa is in order, meaning he will be available for Ghana's remaining group-stage fixtures on American soil — a logistical anomaly that underscores the complex entry requirements players and delegations face at a World Cup spanning three separate immigration jurisdictions.

Ekuban the Hero

With Partey's creative engine missing from midfield, Ghana labored to break down a disciplined Panama side across 90-plus minutes before Ekuban finally found the breakthrough deep in added time. The late winner spared Ghana what would have been a frustrating draw and sent them to the top of Group L with three points.

Group L Picture

Ghana's win came after England had already set the early pace in the group, defeating Croatia 4–2 in the round's other fixture. That result sets up a blockbuster second-round clash between Ghana and England on June 23, while Panama face Croatia in the early hours of June 24.

England's emphatic opening victory means Ghana will need a strong performance to advance their knockout-stage ambitions, but Partey's anticipated return to the lineup for the England fixture gives the Black Stars a meaningful boost heading into their most demanding group test.

The 2026 World Cup — the first edition to feature 48 nations — continues across the United States, Canada, and Mexico through July 19, with Argentina defending the title they won four years ago.