After nearly a week of watching matches on TV, the dramatic conclusion of an intense night in Toronto made the wait more than worthwhile for Ghana. A that battled to the very end in search of their first point at the global finals.
"Ninety minutes + five... I don't even know how to describe that emotion," said Antoine Semenyo when asked by FIFA about the moment that sent Black Stars fans into raptures in the stands. "We were all so relieved because we knew how important this game was for us and also because it gives us a confidence boost going into the next game."
The relief surely stemmed not only from the three points, but also from the fact that all of Ghana's hard work and patience had paid maximum dividends.
"They [Panama] had some quite big guys to be honest, but we like that physicality," Semenyo explained. "That's what we thrive off and I thought it was a really good match-up today."
The was quick to point out that the result sets the bar for the next big tests in Group L.
"I am so happy to say that we've got that win, but we can't take our foot off the gas. We now have two important games and big challenges ahead of us."
Up next for Ghana are England, fresh off an .
"It is going to be really tough and that is why we needed this win and the confidence to potentially help us into the next round," he added. "We feel like with this team, we've got talent, we've got a point to prove, and I feel like that's the driving force for us."
For the Manchester City star, Tuesday's trip to Boston means facing many players he has shared Premier League pitches and dressing rooms with. "Of course, they're my friends and there's love there, but now it's just time to focus. We had a little bit of banter before we left for the World Cup, but I don't think there is going to be any more.
"I don't think I will be texting anybody from the England team. If they text me, then I'll reply. But it's a serious competition, so it is just time to lock in."
Sources: FIFA Official
