Ghana arrive at the FIFA World Cup 2026 carrying the weight of a wretched run of results, while Panama step into Group L with a confidence that few anticipated. The two sides meet in what promises to be a pivotal early contest, with Antoine Semenyo carrying Ghana's hopes on his shoulders.

Ghana's struggles in the build-up

The Black Stars have been in alarming form heading into the tournament, losing six of their last seven matches. Their only positive result in that run was a 1-1 draw against Wales. Across those seven games, Ghana conceded 13 goals and scored just three — a deeply troubling defensive and offensive record ahead of a World Cup.

Semenyo featured in four of those seven matches. The winger made headlines during a standout first half of the Premier League season at a non-Big Six club before completing a mid-season move to Manchester City, where he became one of the top flight's most dangerous wide men for a title-challenging side.

Panama's underrated momentum

Panama, a side many may have overlooked, arrive in far better shape. They recorded two wins and three draws in their last seven outings, netting 11 goals in that period. Even a 6-2 defeat to Brazil in May — a match in which Carlo Ancelotti fielded a near full-strength squad — saw Panama score twice, underlining their threat going forward.

Panama have never won or drawn a World Cup match, but they enter this fixture with a tangible belief that their time has arrived. Their form advantage over Ghana is real, even if the gap between the two sides is not insurmountable.

The verdict

Ghana are not without hope. Should Semenyo find his top gear, the Black Stars are capable of producing moments of genuine quality. However, Panama's superior recent form and the confidence they carry into this Group L contest make them the more likely winners.

If Panama execute their game plan — something they appear equipped to do — a first-ever World Cup victory is firmly within their grasp. Prediction: Ghana 1-2 Panama.