Antoine Semenyo wins Player of the Match as Ghana leave it late to sink Panama ahead of England showdown

Antoine Semenyo played a decisive role as Ghana snatched a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama at the death. Caleb Yirenkyi’s 95th-minute winner secured all three points for the Black Stars, who moved level with England at the top of World Cup Group L ahead of a crucial showdown between the two nations.

Semenyo helps Ghana strike at the death

Ghana left it late to secure victory over Panama, with Yirenkyi scoring a dramatic winner in the fifth minute of stoppage time. The Black Stars struggled to impose themselves for long periods and appeared set to settle for a draw before finally finding a breakthrough.

Semenyo proved Ghana’s most dangerous attacking outlet throughout the contest. Operating from the right, he helped create the decisive move, with Abdul Fatawu supplying the final pass before Yirenkyi bundled the ball into the net.

The result lifted Ghana level on points with England in Group L, while Panama were left to rue a missed opportunity after controlling large portions of the match.

Semenyo highlights importance of the result

The Manchester City forward was later named FIFA’s Player of the Match and admitted the emotions surrounding the late winner were difficult to put into words.

He also praised Ghana’s resilience against a physically imposing Panama side.

“Ninety minutes plus five… I don’t even know how to describe that emotion,” he told FIFA.

“We were all so relieved because we knew how important this game was for us and also because it gives us a confidence boost going into the next game.

“They had some quite big guys to be honest, but we like that physicality. That’s what we thrive off and I thought it was a really good match-up today.

“I am so happy to say that we’ve got that win, but we can’t take our foot off the gas. We now have two important games and big challenges ahead of us.”

England clash already on Semenyo’s mind

Ghana’s next assignment sees them take on England in what could prove to be a pivotal Group L encounter.

For Semenyo, the fixture carries extra significance given his friendships with several England players through his time in the Premier League and at Manchester City.

However, the winger insists personal relationships will be put on hold once the whistle blows.

“It is going to be really tough and that is why we needed this win and the confidence to potentially help us into the next round,” he said.

“We feel like with this team, we’ve got talent, we’ve got a point to prove, and I feel like that’s the driving force for us.

“Of course, they’re my friends and there’s love there, but now it’s just time to focus.

“We had a little bit of banter before we left for the World Cup, but I don’t think there is going to be any more.

“I don’t think I will be texting anybody from the England team. If they text me, then I’ll reply. But it’s a serious competition, so it is just time to lock in.”

Ghana set for defining Group L test

The late victory has given Ghana valuable momentum heading into one of the biggest matches of their World Cup campaign.

With England also opening their tournament with a win over Croatia, both sides know victory in their upcoming meeting could put them in a commanding position to qualify for the knockout stages.

Semenyo’s performance against Panama suggests the Black Stars possess the quality and belief to challenge anyone in the group as they continue their quest for World Cup success.