World Cup 2026: FIFA appoints Swedish referee Glenn Nyberg for Ghana’s opener against Panama

Swedish referee Glenn Nyberg has been appointed as the official referee for the 2026 World Cup Group L opener between Ghana and Panama on Wednesday.

The encounter, scheduled to take place at Toronto Stadium, is expected to play a key role in shaping the fortunes of both nations in a group that also includes England and Croatia.

Nyberg will be supported by fellow Swedes Mahbod Beigi and Andreas Söderkvist, who have been named as assistant referees. Khalid Alturais will complete the officiating team as fourth official.

The announcement comes as anticipation continues to build ahead of Ghana’s return to football’s biggest stage. After successfully navigating the qualification campaign, the Black Stars are preparing to test themselves against some of the world’s best teams in North America.

While much of the attention will be focused on the players, the appointment of an experienced refereeing team is another important step in the countdown to the tournament. Nyberg has handled several high-profile matches in European football and will be tasked with maintaining order in what is expected to be a competitive contest.

For Ghana, the clash against Panama presents an opportunity to lay down an early marker. A positive result would strengthen the team’s position in Group L before facing tougher assignments later in the competition.

Head coach Carlos Queiroz is expected to demand concentration and composure from his players as they seek to make a winning start. Panama, meanwhile, will be equally determined to collect points and boost their own hopes of reaching the knockout rounds.

With the officials now confirmed and final preparations underway, attention is turning to the highly anticipated showdown in Toronto, where the Black Stars will look to begin their World Cup journey on a positive note.