2026 World Cup: Antoine Semenyo will be the difference maker for Black Stars - Asamoah Gyan

Ghana legend Asamoah Gyan has tipped Antoine Semenyo to play a decisive role for the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the forward as a central figure in the team’s ambitions for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Semenyo has enjoyed a standout campaign that has significantly raised his profile on the international stage. The Ghana forward impressed with AFC Bournemouth, registering 10 goals and three assists, before securing a move to Manchester City FC in January.
He carried that momentum into his new surroundings, adding 11 goals and three assists while helping his club secure two domestic trophies in a highly successful season.
Those performances have further cemented his status as one of Ghana’s most important attacking options heading into the 23rd edition of football’s global showpiece.
Speaking at the Rolling Nations event in New York City, Gyan—Africa’s all-time top scorer at the FIFA World Cup—said Semenyo has become the “poster boy” of the current Black Stars squad.
According to him, the striker’s influence will be central to Ghana’s hopes of improving on recent disappointments at the tournament.
“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 featured at the 2006, 2010 and 2014 World Cups, also warned that the forward will face heightened pressure due to his rising status in European football.
“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 is set for his second World Cup appearance, has scored three goals in 34 appearances for Ghana.
The Black Stars are currently stepping up preparations with friendly matches against Wales in Cardiff and Jamaica on June 10.
At the World Cup, Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia. Their campaign begins against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field, followed by fixtures against England and Croatia.
Having suffered consecutive group-stage exits in recent tournaments, Ghana will be aiming to progress beyond the group stage for the first time since their historic quarter-final run in 2010.