Ghana coach drops to knees in front of fans after stoppage-time goal decides World Cup opener

Ghana manager Carlos Queiroz watched his team push for more than 90 minutes before a breakthrough moment in extra time turned frustration for the Black Stars into absolute euphoria.

The 73-year-old Ghana manager sprinted toward the touchline and dropped to his knees after watching his side snatch a thrilling 1-0 win over Panama deep into stoppage time in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Toronto Stadium.

Things initially appeared to be set for Ghana to settle for a point despite creating dangerous moments throughout the contest. They allowed Panama to dominate possession until Ghana finally broke through in the 95th minute.

Manchester City winger Antoine Semenyo played a ball to release substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante down the left flank. Ghana was without midfielder Thomas Partey after the Canadian government denied his visa due to pending sexual violence charges.

Thomas-Asante reached the ball just ahead of Panama defender Jose Cordoba and drilled a dangerous pass across the face of the goal.

Caleb Yirenkyi stretched every muscle possible to reach and slotted the ball over the line to send Ghana supporters and Queiroz into celebration. The Ghana coach raced away from the technical area before collapsing to his knees in front of the fans at BMO Field.

The late winner came after Panama registered four shots on target to Ghana's two, with two big chances. Ghana proved much more clinical when the defining opportunity arose in front of goal.

Fans on social media celebrated what Queiroz's victory signified for both himself and his team. One fan wrote, "That smile is pure relief and joy. Massive win."

A second fan wrote, "Finally a nice moment in the World Cup," while a third added, "Queiroz knows how to build winners."

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