Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz believes the Black Stars have the potential to achieve something special at the 2026 FIFA World Cup following their hard-earned victory over Panama in their opening Group L match.

The four-time African champions kicked off their campaign with a narrow 1-0 win at BMO Field in Toronto, with Caleb Yirenkyi netting a dramatic late winner after Panama had controlled large portions of the contest.

Despite acknowledging that his side did not play their best, Queiroz praised the character and determination shown by his players in securing all three points.

“With the football we played today, I believe Ghana can achieve something special,” the Portuguese coach said after the match.

The Black Stars were dealt an early setback when first-choice goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi was forced off following a collision and was replaced by Benjamin Asare at halftime.

When asked about Ati-Zigi’s condition ahead of Ghana’s next match against England, Queiroz admitted it was too early to determine the extent of the injury.

“I’m not sure yet,” he said. “With this kind of injury, you normally need 24 to 48 hours before you can properly assess the situation.”

The 73-year-old tactician only took charge of the national team in April after replacing Otto Addo, who was dismissed following a series of disappointing results earlier in the year.

The victory leaves Ghana second in Group L, behind England, which began its campaign with a 4-2 win over Croatia.

Attention now shifts to a crucial showdown with the Three Lions at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before the Black Stars conclude their group-stage campaign against Croatia on June 27.

After making a winning start, optimism is growing within the Ghana camp as they aim to reach the knockout stages of the World Cup for the first time since their memorable quarter-final run in South Africa in 2010.