Former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan believes Ghana’s opening World Cup clash against the Panama national football team will be the defining game for the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ghana is in Group L with Panama, England, and Croatia.

Gyan told World Cup Central on Channel One TV that Ghana’s chances of moving past the group stage could depend on how they do in their first match.

“In my view, this is the key match in the group,” he said.

“Even though England and Croatia are there, the Panama game is the one that matters most.”

The former striker said Ghana might look stronger on paper, but warned not to underestimate Panama.

“Statistically, we may be ahead of them, but we still don’t know exactly what they will bring,” he explained.

“From what I’ve seen of Panama recently, they are a team we need to be careful about.”

Gyan called Group L tough and unpredictable. He said beating Panama could give the Black Stars momentum and confidence for the rest of their games.

“It’s a very tricky group, but if we can beat Panama, then anything becomes possible in the other games,” he said.

The former Sunderland forward urged the team to take it one game at a time and stressed the importance of winning their first match.

“People will expect Ghana to beat Panama, but every team at the World Cup deserves respect because qualification alone means they’ve done something right,” he stated.

“Still, we have to make sure we win that game. We cannot settle for anything less than three points.”

The Black Stars will play in their fifth World Cup, starting against Panama on June 17. They will then face England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.

Before the tournament, Ghana will play friendly matches against Mexico on May 22 and Wales on June 2 as part of their final preparations.