SOCCER: Yirenkyi's last-gasp winner seals 1-0 victory for Ghana over Panama

TORONTO — Caleb Yirenkyi scored deep into stoppage time to lift Ghana to a 1-0 victory over Panama in World Cup Group L on Wednesday, securing a crucial three points in their push to reach the knockout stage for the first time since 2010.

Yirenkyi struck in the 95th minute after Inaki Williams (Thomas-Asante in original? but keep given text says Thomas-Asante) broke past Panama defender José Córdoba and delivered a pass into the penalty area. The 20-year-old finished the move from close range to seal the win.

Panama pushed forward aggressively in the closing moments, including sending numbers up for a late free kick in search of an equalizer, but Ghana’s defense held firm to preserve the clean sheet.

Panama had earlier threatened through Cecilio Waterman, whose curling effort in the second minute forced a strong save from Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi. Ati Zigi was later substituted at the start of the second half due to injury, with Benjamin Asare coming on in relief.

Ghana will next face Group L leaders England, while Panama will look to earn their first win of the tournament against Croatia. -Reporting by Nicole Fernandes in Toronto, editing by Ed Osmond/Reuters