Black Stars forward Antoine Semenyo says he is mentally prepared and eager to play a key role in Ghana’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Semenyo, who played an instrumental role in Ghana’s qualification for the global showpiece, is expected to be one of the team’s key figures when the tournament kicks off across the USA, Canada and Mexico this summer.
Fresh from winning two domestic titles with Manchester City in his debut season, the 26-year-old believes he is now in a stronger position to make a meaningful impact at his second World Cup appearance.
Reflecting on his first experience at the Mundial, Semenyo described the 2022 tournament in Qatar as a special moment in his career but insists he is now focused on helping Ghana prove themselves on the world stage.
“It was very surreal. At that time, I was still at Bristol City, so it was so special. But I feel like now, I just want to prove – and we all want to prove – that we’re a top nation,” he told FIFA in an interview.
The forward also highlighted his personal growth over the last four years, stressing that he is physically and mentally ready for the challenge ahead.
“Since that last World Cup, a bit of experience has come in. I feel mentally a lot stronger, I feel healthy, and I’m 100 per cent. So I want to contribute the best way I can,” Semenyo added.
Meanwhile, the Black Stars have stepped up preparations for the 2026 World Cup after opening camp ahead of their pre-tournament friendlies.
Semenyo, who missed Ghana’s recent friendly against Mexico, is expected to return to action when the team faces Wales on June 2 at the Cardiff City Stadium.
Ghana will be making their fifth appearance at the World Cup and have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.
The Black Stars will open their campaign against Panama at BMO Field on June 17 before taking on England at Gillette Stadium on June 23. Their final group-stage fixture will be against Croatia at Lincoln Financial Field on June 27.
Having suffered consecutive group-stage exits at the 2014 and 2022 World Cups in Brazil and Qatar respectively, Ghana will be determined to reach the knockout stage for the first time since 2010.
Head coach Carlos Queiroz is also expected to name his final 26-man squad before the friendly clash against Wales.
