By Anyetei Joseph | June 18, 2026
The Municipal Chief Executive of New Juaben South, Hon. Ransford Owusu Boakye, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, joined residents and football fans at Jackson Park in Koforidua to watch the Black Stars' opening fixture at the 2026 FIFA World Cup live.
The public viewing event brought together football enthusiasts from across the municipality to cheer Ghana on as the Black Stars faced Panama in a Group L clash held at Toronto Stadium in Canada.
The match proved to be a tense and dramatic encounter. Panama controlled proceedings in the first half, dominating possession and pressing Ghana into their own half for long stretches. However, Ghana were much improved after the break, with Antoine Semenyo at the heart of everything positive going forward.
With the game heading for a goalless draw, Ghana fans and players erupted in celebration as Caleb Yirenkyi finished a sweeping counterattack with a tap-in goal in the fifth minute of second-half stoppage time. Brandon Thomas-Asante had driven into the penalty area down the left and squared the ball for Yirenkyi to redirect into the net, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory for the Black Stars.
The MCE's presence at the public viewing centre was seen as a strong gesture of solidarity with the people of New Juaben South, affirming the Assembly's commitment to sharing in the joys and aspirations of the community. The atmosphere at Jackson Park was electric, with fans celebrating the last-gasp winner together.
The victory placed Ghana alongside England at the top of Group L as the Black Stars begin their 2026 World Cup campaign on a winning note.
The New Juaben South Municipal Assembly congratulates the Black Stars and joins all Ghanaians in supporting the team as they continue their journey at the tournament.