The fixture represents a significant opportunity for the Black Stars to lay down an early marker in a group that also contains England and Croatia. With qualification expected to be fiercely contested, securing a positive result against Panama could prove decisive in Ghana’s hopes of reaching the knockout rounds.
Much of the pre-match discussion has centred around the availability of captain Thomas Partey.
The experienced midfielder remains Ghana’s most influential player and the heartbeat of Carlos Queiroz’s side when available. Partey’s ability to dictate tempo, break up opposition attacks and provide leadership in high-pressure situations makes him indispensable to the Black Stars.
Questions surrounding his availability have generated concern among supporters as the former Arsenal midfielder, now at Villarreal, looks set to miss his side’s opening game. His absence is due to a Canadian travel ban and visa issues that legally prevent him from entering the North American nation. Canadian immigration officials denied the footballer a visa, ruling him inadmissible to enter the host country for the tournament.
In Partey’s absence, Antoine Semenyo will carry the weight of being the talisman for the Black Stars. Semenyo enters the tournament as the nation’s biggest attacking threat following another impressive season at club level. His creativity, dribbling ability and eye for goal make him the player most likely to unlock Panama’s defence.
Defensively, Ghana will hope to establish a solid foundation through Jerome Opoku and Jonas Adjetey. Their ability to deal with Panama’s physical approach and aerial threat could prove crucial in determining the outcome.
Against a Panama side likely to remain compact and disciplined, Ghana will aim to dominate possession, control midfield and create opportunities through Kudus and Semenyo in advanced areas.
Here, we predict how Queiroz could line up for Ghana’s World Cup opener against Panama
Prediction – Ghana 2-1 Panama
Ghana enter the match as slight favourites thanks to their superior individual quality and attacking firepower.
Panama have consistently proven difficult opponents at major tournaments and are unlikely to offer many opportunities. Their organisation, work rate and experience could make life uncomfortable for the Black Stars, particularly during the early stages.
However, Ghana’s attacking talent should eventually create enough chances to secure victory.