Toronto [Canada], June 18 (ANI): Ghana began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in their Group L clash, thanks to a stoppage-time winner from Caleb Yirenkyi on Wednesday (local time).The match looked destined to end in a goalless draw as both sides struggled to break the deadlock in a tightly contested encounter. Ghana enjoyed more possession but found it difficult to penetrate a disciplined and well-organised Panama defence, which remained compact and limited clear scoring opportunities throughout the game.Panama also posed occasional threats on the counter-attack and kept Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi alert at key moments.However, just when the match appeared set to finish level, Yirenkyi struck in stoppage time to seal a hard-fought win for the Black Stars.The late goal denied Panama a valuable point and ensured Ghana made a winning start to their World Cup 2026 campaign.The game witnessed dramatic scenes as a Panama player made contact with Ghana goalkeeper Asare.The only two winning goals scored in the 90th minute or later at the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far have both secured 1-0 victories for African nations, with Caleb Yirenkyi netting for Ghana against Panama and Amad Diallo scoring for Cote d’Ivoire against Ecuador.The result leaves Ghana second in Group L behind England on goal difference after the opening round of fixtures. Panama sits third, while Croatia are bottom following their defeat to England.Earlier, World Cup contenders England secured a convincing 4-2 win over Croatia in what has been the most entertaining match of the tournament so far.The England skipper, Harry Kane, delivered a commanding display, scoring a brace against Croatia, with one goal coming from the penalty spot in the 12th minute and another in the 42nd minute, helping England secure a strong start to their campaign.The in-form Jude Bellingham and substitute Marcus Rashford sealed the victory with impressive second-half strikes as England pulled away in a high-intensity contest.Croatia had twice fought back to level the scores in a seesaw first half.First, Martin Baturina cancelled out Harry Kane’s retaken penalty with a thumping finish. Then Petar Musa levelled after Kane had struck again with a header. (ANI)(This content is sourced from a syndicated feed and is published as received. The Tribune assumes no responsibility or liability for its accuracy, completeness, or content.)