The Chairman of the Unified Supporters Club of Nigeria, Vincent Okumagba, has stated that the Black Stars of Ghana triumphed over Panama in their opening match of the ongoing World Cup in Toronto, Canada, partly due to the support from Nigerians. Ghana secured a 1-0 victory over Panama in their first group match early Thursday morning in Toronto. Caleb Yirenkyi scored the only goal deep into stoppage time, finishing a sweeping counterattack with a tap-in to give Ghana a last-gasp win in rainy conditions. The goal sparked a melee before the referee blew the final whistle.
Okumagba Praises Nigerian Support
Speaking with The Guardian shortly after the match, Okumagba noted that although Ghanaians came in large numbers, members of the Unified Supporters Club and Nigerian residents in Toronto and its surroundings played a significant role in the victory. 'I am happy our support for Ghana's Black Stars eventually paid off,' Okumagba said. 'At one point, some Ghanaian supporters looked tired and stopped drumming, but as usual, we kept hitting our drums harder to encourage the players on the pitch. It paid off in the end, and we are very happy.'
African Teams in the World Cup
Ghana's victory over Panama increased the number of African teams that won their first group match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Earlier, Cote d'Ivoire defeated Ecuador 1-0, while four other African countries secured draws. Morocco, Egypt, Cape Verde, and DR Congo each earned one point, while South Africa, Tunisia, Algeria, and Senegal lost their opening matches. Okumagba stated that they will continue to support African teams in the World Cup since the Super Eagles did not qualify.
Match Analysis
The battle in Toronto was not easy for Ghana. Panama dominated before halftime, while Ghana controlled more of the play after the interval in the Group L encounter. In another African match, South Africa drew 1-1 with the Czech Republic in their second group game after losing 2-0 to host Mexico in the tournament's opener. South Africa now faces South Korea in their final group match, needing a win to advance as either the second-placed team or one of the eight best third-placed teams.
