Ghana ties Nigeria’s African all-time FIFA World Cup record with Panama win
A dramatic stoppage-time winner from teenage debutant Caleb Yirenkyi secured a 1-0 victory over Panama, lifting Ghana level with Nigeria for the most FIFA World Cup finals wins by an African nation.
A piece of footballing history was written at BMO Field as teenage midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi propelled Ghana into a share of continental history.
The 20-year-old Nordsjælland starlet struck a dramatic 95th-minute winner on his tournament debut to secure a crucial 1-0 victory over Panama. The result effectively kickstarts the Black Stars’ Group L campaign in spectacular fashion.
Beyond securing three vital points, the triumph marks a monumental milestone for Ghanaian football. The victory represents Ghana’s sixth all-time win in FIFA World Cup finals history.
The achievement officially elevates them level with their long-standing West African rivals, Nigeria, for the absolute most victories recorded by any African nation on the global stage. The feat is particularly impressive given the respective timelines of the continent’s heavyweights.
Of the top five African nations with the most World Cup victories, which includes Cameroon, Morocco, and Senegal with five wins apiece, Ghana is by far the latest to debut. The Black Stars only made their maiden tournament appearance in 2006.
By matching the Super Eagles’ record of six wins in significantly fewer tournaments, Ghana has firmly cemented its elite status.
With Nigeria absent from the 2026 showcase across North America, Carlos Queiroz’s side now stands on the precipice of taking sole ownership of the record as they progress further into the group stage.
