Ghana secured a victory in their 2026 World Cup opener, defeating Panama 1-0. This result saw coach Carlos Queiroz break a record. In the fifth minute of second-half stoppage time at Toronto Stadium, Antoine Semenyo threaded a pass to Brandon Thomas-Asante. Thomas-Asante broke free down the left wing, then crossed into the penalty area, where Caleb Yirenkyi tapped in from close range for Ghana's only goal.

Queiroz's achievement makes him the oldest coach to win a World Cup match. At 73 years and 108 days old, he surpassed the previous record held by Otto Rehhagel, who led Greece to a victory over Nigeria at the 2010 World Cup when he was 72 years and 317 days old.

Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz celebrates after the victory over Panama in Group L of the 2026 World Cup at Toronto Stadium, Canada on 17/6. Photo: AP

Queiroz brings experience to the Ghana squad, having worked with players like Cristiano Ronaldo. He served as an assistant at Man Utd from 2004 to 2008, a period when Ronaldo played for the "Red Devils". Queiroz also managed the Portugal national team from 2008 to 2010, guiding them to the 2010 World Cup, where they exited in the round of 16 against Spain. He notably gave Ronaldo the captain's armband for Portugal at that tournament when Ronaldo was 25 years old.

His coaching career spans national teams including Iran, Colombia, Egypt, Qatar, and Oman, before his current role with Ghana. Queiroz is now the second coach in history to participate in five consecutive World Cups, following Bora Milutinovic. In terms of total World Cup appearances as a coach, he is second only to Carlos Alberto Parreira, who participated in six tournaments, though not consecutively.

Queiroz reflected on Ghana's approach against Panama, highlighting their intelligent play. He noted that the team understood the need to endure the opponent's ball possession, patiently waiting for opportunities. This approach ultimately paid off, leading to their goal.

The 1-0 victory boosts Ghana's prospects of advancing from Group L, a group where England and Croatia are considered stronger. Ghana is set to face England in their second group stage match, while Panama must secure points against Croatia to avoid an early exit.

Queiroz's appointment as Ghana's coach was unexpected. In 4/2026, the Ghana Football Federation dismissed Otto Addo despite the national team having qualified for the World Cup, citing a series of disappointing friendly results. Many believed Queiroz's coaching career had concluded after his tenure in Oman. However, he accepted the offer to lead Ghana just two months before the 2026 World Cup. His initial record with the team included one draw and one loss in friendly matches prior to the Panama game.

Hoang An (according to Record)