Ghana secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama after Caleb Yirenkyi scored a stoppage-time winner to deny the Central American side their first-ever FIFA World Cup point.
With the match heading towards a draw, Brandon Thomas-Asante made a decisive run down the left wing in the 95th minute before delivering a pass across goal for Yirenkyi, who calmly tapped home the winner.
The result was a cruel blow for Panama, who produced a determined performance and matched the four-time African champions for much of the contest in only their fourth World Cup appearance since making their tournament debut in 2018.
Panama nearly opened the scoring within the opening minutes, but goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi made an important save to deny Cecilio Waterman.
The Central Americans continued to threaten in the second half, with Cristian Martinez coming close when his effort struck the side netting from close range.
Ghana were forced into a goalkeeping change at half-time after Ati Zigi suffered an injury, leading to Benjamin Asare replacing him for the remainder of the match.
Despite creating few clear opportunities, Ghana found the breakthrough at the death to claim all three points and boost their hopes of progressing from Group L.
The Black Stars will now prepare for a crucial clash against group leaders England, while Panama will look to end their winless World Cup run when they face Croatia.
