Lawrence Ati-Zigi Starts in Goal as Ghana Name XI for World Cup Opener Against Panama

The Black Stars have unveiled their starting lineup for tonight’s crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L opener against Panama at Toronto Stadium in Canada. Kick-off is scheduled for 23:00 GMT as Ghana begin their fifth World Cup campaign.

Head coach Carlos Queiroz has handed the captain’s armband to Jordan Ayew, who leads the attack alongside Antoine Semenyo, Ernest Nuamah and Kamaldeen Sulemana in an exciting frontline.

In midfield, Elisha Owusu partners promising youngster Caleb Yirenkyi, while Lawrence Ati-Zigi starts in goal behind a back four of Marvin Senaya, Jonas Adjetey, Jerome Opoku and Gideon Mensah.

Ghana Starting XI

Goalkeeper

Lawrence Ati-Zigi

Defenders

Marvin Senaya

Jonas Adjetey

Jerome Opoku

Gideon Mensah

Midfielders

Elisha Owusu

Caleb Yirenkyi

Attackers

Kamaldeen Sulemana

Ernest Nuamah

Antoine Semenyo

Jordan Ayew (Captain)

The lineup reflects the absence of Thomas Partey, who is unavailable for the match after being denied entry into Canada, forcing Queiroz to reshuffle his midfield options.

For Ghana, this match represents a golden opportunity to secure three points before tougher Group L encounters against England and Croatia. A positive result would significantly boost the Black Stars’ hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

Story by Achore Richard.