Ghana-Panama World Cup match in Toronto was a party fit for a king

TORONTO — Soccer fans partied in the rain and temporarily shut down a major downtown Toronto intersection on Wednesday night after Ghana beat Panama in a World Cup matchup that drew tens of thousands of fervent supporters, and even Ghanaian royalty, to the city.

Sankofa Square at the corner of Yonge and Dundas streets was an all-day hub for Ghana supporters who spilled onto roads in jubilation after Caleb Yirenkyi scored in the 95th minute for a 1-0 victory.

Many fans started gathering early in the day for the Tribe Ghana Fun Fest at the square, where attendees were greeted by king Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, dressed in traditional regalia, and other dignitaries.

The traditional ruler of the Asante kingdom in Ghana appeared as part of the Canada Ghana Chamber of Commerce’s “Beyond the World Cup” event in collaboration with the watch party.

The soccer fans saw it as a good omen.

“We were here very early to meet our king from Ghana, and then he gave us his blessing before leaving,” said Akwasi Kofi Antwi. That blessing, he said, meant that a Ghana victory was all but “guaranteed.”

Predictions among the Sankofa Square crowd ranged widely — some forecasted Ghana scoring as many as seven goals against Panama, while others predicted a more modest 2-0 result.

In the end, the single late goal was all fans needed.

“It was a very difficult game,” said Elijah Appau outside Toronto Stadium. “But I’m very grateful for this win … I was screaming, I was jumping, I didn’t know what to do with myself.”

Panama fan Luis Cuesta said the result was disappointing but still walked away happy.

“We (lost) but we did a good job,” he said. “I’m happy because we saw so many Panamanian people at the game.”

The match may have ended with some tense moments between the opposing teams on the field, but their supporters were joyful as they mingled at the stadium and broke off into various dance parties outside afterward. Similar scenes were repeated at watch parties across the city, including at the outdoor FIFA Fan Fest where people jumped and danced in rain ponchos on a soggy field.

Before kickoff, thousands of Ghana supporters had marched from Stanley Park and a massive crowd draped in Panama flags and colours made its way from Trinity Bellwoods Park. Stadium attendance reached nearly 43,000.

For some Ghana fans, the absence of midfielder Thomas Partey cast a shadow over the celebrations.

Partey was refused entry into Canada because he’s awaiting trial in Britain on rape and sexual assault charges. He has pleaded not guilty and Ghana has criticized the decision as unfair. A Federal Court judge on Tuesday dismissed his bid for emergency relief.

“It’s just unfortunate that our (vice) captain … was not granted an entry into the country, but we are hoping for the best for the team,” said team supporter Alex Denteh, who travelled to Toronto from Montreal.

While other fans also acknowledged Partey’s talent, many said the allegations against him were serious and should not be overlooked. Some felt his absence could affect Ghana’s chances, though most remained confident in the team’s path to victory.

For Panama fans, the match presented the first of two opportunities to cheer on their team in Toronto. Panama will also face Croatia at the stadium next week.

Eric Franco, who arrived from Panama with his father and a friend to attend both matches, said he easily secured tickets for the games.

“It was a little bit expensive but we are here,” he said.

Toronto is hosting four more World Cup matches, with Germany and Ivory Coast facing off next on Saturday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 17, 2026.

Maan Alhmidi and Monique Kasonga, The Canadian Press