'We won the game with the brains' -Carlos Queiroz

Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz praised his players' resilience after Caleb Yirenkyi's stoppage-time goal secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in the Black Stars' opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Yirenkyi struck deep into added time in Toronto on Wednesday to hand

Ghana a crucial win in Group L after a contest in which they spent long periods under pressure.

"First we had to suffer, we battled like warriors," Queiroz told ITV.

"We won the game with the brains."

The Portuguese coach revealed Ghana's approach had always been to absorb pressure before looking to strike at the right moment.

"The first half was to suffer against a great team," he said.

"They know how to play, they know how to do things. We knew they would control the game, but step by step this was our strategy - to let them come and take control until we scored, because this is the way to win."

Queiroz said victories at the World Cup come at a cost and credited his players for their commitment in securing all three points.

"Wins in this World Cup come at a high price and the players showed they were ready to pay it," he said.

The 73-year-old also dismissed concerns over the absence of midfielder Thomas Partey, who missed the tournament opener because of travel and visa issues relating to entry into Canada.

"With the football we played today, we can count on Ghana to do something," Queiroz told reporters after the match.

Queiroz was only appointed Ghana coach in April, replacing Otto Addo following a run of disappointing results that led to his dismissal in March.

Despite celebrating the victory, the former Portugal, Iran and Egypt manager expressed frustration with what he felt was the physical approach adopted by Panama.

He said Ghana had been "naive and not aggressive in the first half" and claimed his players were subjected to rough treatment throughout the match.

There was also concern over goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi, who was forced off at half-time after a collision during the first half.

Asked whether the goalkeeper would be fit to face England in Ghana's next Group L fixture on 23 June, Queiroz said it was too early to make a judgement.

"Not sure," he said.

"It is early and with this kind of injury, only after 24 to 48 hours can we be sure."

Ghana's victory leaves them well placed ahead of a crucial meeting with England, while Panama will look to bounce back when they face Croatia in their second group match.