Ati-Zigi’s First-Half Heroics Keep Ghana Alive Before Injury Scare in Panama Win

Ghana’s opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup may ultimately be remembered for Caleb Yirenkyi’s dramatic stoppage-time winner, but long before the decisive goal arrived, goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi was the player keeping the Black Stars in the contest.

The St. Gallen shot-stopper produced a series of important saves during a difficult first half against Panama on Wednesday night, helping Ghana survive sustained pressure before being forced off at half-time with an apparent injury concern.

Ghana went on to secure a 1-0 victory in Toronto thanks to Yirenkyi’s goal deep into stoppage time, earning three valuable points in Group L.

However, Ati-Zigi’s performance in the opening 45 minutes played a significant role in ensuring the Black Stars remained level long enough to claim victory.

Panama started brightly and threatened almost immediately.

Within the opening minutes, Ati-Zigi was called into action to prevent an early breakthrough, reacting sharply to keep out a dangerous effort as Ghana struggled to settle into the game.

The save set the tone for a busy first half in which Panama enjoyed much of the attacking momentum.

The Black Stars found it difficult to create opportunities going forward and did not register a shot on target before the interval. That left Ati-Zigi and Ghana’s defence under increasing pressure as Panama looked the more dangerous side.

Time and again, the goalkeeper responded.

He remained alert throughout the half, making several key interventions and commanding his area as Panama searched for an opener.

His performance ensured Ghana reached the break with the score still goalless despite spending long periods on the back foot.

The 29-year-old’s evening, however, took an unfortunate turn before half-time. After appearing to suffer an injury during the opening period, Ati-Zigi was unable to continue and was replaced by Benjamin Asare at the start of the second half.

Official details on the extent of the injury have yet to be released, although team officials are expected to assess the situation further before Ghana’s next fixture.

Asare entered under pressure but delivered a composed display after the restart as Ghana gradually grew into the game.

Panama continued to push for a breakthrough and created several promising moments, but the Black Stars held firm.

With the match seemingly heading for a draw, substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante launched a late counterattack in stoppage time before setting up Yirenkyi, who bundled home the winning goal in the 95th minute.

The victory gives Ghana an important start to their World Cup campaign and places them in a strong position in Group L. Yet amid the celebrations, concern remains over the condition of Ati-Zigi.

For much of the first half, Ghana relied heavily on their goalkeeper’s reflexes and experience to stay in the contest.