Ghana legend Asamoah Gyan believes Antoine Semenyo could be the difference-maker for the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be staged across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Semenyo has enjoyed a remarkable season that has elevated his profile on the global stage. After impressing with AFC Bournemouth, where he scored 10 goals and provided three assists, the Ghana forward earned a move to Manchester City FC in January.
The 26-year-old continued his outstanding form following the transfer, registering 11 goals and three assists while helping the club secure two domestic trophies to cap off a memorable campaign.
His performances have further strengthened his reputation as one of Ghana’s most influential attacking players heading into the 23rd edition of the global showpiece.
Speaking at the Rolling Nations event in New York City, Gyan, Africa’s all-time leading scorer at the FIFA World Cup, described Semenyo as the poster boy of the current Black Stars squad heading into the tournament.
He highlighted the former Bristol City striker’s importance to the national team, insisting he will be a key asset as Ghana seeks to make a strong impression on football’s biggest stage after back-to-back group phase elimination in 2014 and 2022 in Brazil and Qatar, respectively.
“He’s [Antoine Semenyo] the face of Ghana football right now because of his position and what he has done for himself. Everything is going to depend on Antoine Semenyo for this World Cup,” Gyan said.
Gyan, who played at the 2006, 2010 and 2014 World Cups, further highlighted the challenges that Semenyo may face heading into the tournament, particularly following the outstanding season he has enjoyed.
“There will be a lot of pressure on Semenyo going to the World Cup. People back home have questions about his performance when it comes to the national team.”
“There will be a bit of pressure because of where he is playing now. When you’re playing for one of the best teams in the world, and you come to the national team, there will be a lot of expectations,” he added.
Semenyo, who will make his second World Cup appearance this summer, has netted thrice for the Black Stars in 34 matches.
The Black Stars are continuing preparations for the tournament with a series of international friendlies. Ghana will face Wales at the Cardiff City Stadium before concluding their build-up with another friendly against Jamaica on June 10.
Attention will then shift to the World Cup, where Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.
The Black Stars will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field before facing England six days later. They will conclude their group-stage fixtures against Croatia on June 27.
After suffering back-to-back group-stage exits at recent World Cups, Ghana will be determined to reach the knockout stages for the first time since their historic run to the quarter-finals at the 2010 tournament in South Africa.
