Ghana defender Gideon Mensah says the Black Stars' opening victory over Panama was the defining moment of their 2026 World Cup campaign, as it gave the team belief they could progress from a difficult group.Although Ghana's run in North America ended earlier than hoped, Mensah says he looks back on the tournament with pride after the four-time African champions produced several memorable performances.The Black Stars began their campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Panama, with Caleb Yirenkyi's late goal securing three crucial points after Ghana stood firm to protect their lead.They followed that result with a disciplined goalless draw against England, leaving them well placed to reach the knockout stage before a narrow defeat to Croatia ended their group campaign.For Mensah, the victory over Panama remains the standout memory from the tournament.I think we all enjoyed winning against Panama. Obviously, playing against England, getting a goalless draw against England was something good for the country, but then we want to win every game," he told Flashscore."Going into that game and then winning against Panama was one of the standout moments for me in the World Cup.The 28-year-old believes that result transformed the team's outlook for the remainder of the group stage.Qualifying from the group came to life because of the win against Panama. So I think that will be the standout moment for me in the World Cup.Ghana suffered an elimination after a 1-0 loss against Colombia in the Round of 32.Mensah's reflections on the World Cup come as he begins a new chapter in his club career following his move from French side AJ Auxerre.The left-back left Auxerre after becoming a regular in the team, helping the club win promotion and establishing himself as one of Ligue 1's dependable performers in his position.He has already made his Bundesliga debut for 1. FC Kln, featuring as the newly promoted side opened their league campaign with a 3-2 victory over TSG Hoffenheim at the RheinEnergieStadion.Mensah is expected to be involved again next weekend when Kln travel to face VfB Stuttgart at the MHPArena this weekend.However, Mensah is set to rejoin the Black Stars as Ghana begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with an away fixture against Ivory Coast before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium later this month.
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