Queiroz Hails Ghana’s ‘Warriors’ for Using Their Brains to Edge Panama in World Cup Opener

 Queiroz Hails Ghana’s ‘Warriors’ for Using Their Brains to Edge Panama in World Cup Opener

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has showered praise on his players for their resilience and tactical intelligence after securing a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

A stoppage-time strike from Caleb Yirenkyi at Toronto Stadium handed the Black Stars all three points in Group L, despite Panama dominating large stretches of the game and looking the more composed side for much of the contest.

Ghana failed to register a single shot in the first half and managed just 35 percent possession before the break, while Panama enjoyed 65 percent of the ball and created the better chances.

The win marked a winning start for Queiroz at a World Cup with Ghana, but the Portuguese coach admitted his side had to endure long periods without the ball before executing their game plan.

“We battled like warriors,” Queiroz told ITV in a post-match interview. “We won the game with our brains. First we had to suffer against a great team. They know how to play. We knew they would control the game. But step by step, our strategy was to let them come. This is the way to win.”

The victory leaves Ghana second in Group L, behind England, who beat Croatia 4-2. The Black Stars will face the Three Lions on June 23, while Panama will look to bounce back against Croatia.

Credit to Myjoyonline