Antoine Semenyo explains decision to choose Ghana over England ahead of World Cup 2026 clash

Ghana international Antoine Semenyo has opened up on his decision to represent the Black Stars instead of England, as he prepares for a potential showdown against his country of birth at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 26-year-old forward, born in London to Ghanaian parents, will be part of Ghana’s squad heading into the global tournament in the United States, where they are drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama.

Semenyo admitted that choosing Ghana was a straightforward decision, revealing he never felt close to breaking into the England setup despite his steady rise in club football.

“I was never in the England rankings like that anyway,” he said in an interview via All Out Football. “Ghana came when I was around 20 or 21, and I couldn’t turn down playing first-team football for Ghana. It was such an easy decision.”

Since making his debut for the Black Stars in 2022, Semenyo has developed into one of Ghana’s key attacking figures, bringing pace, power and versatility to the national team.

His decision has also been warmly embraced by his family, particularly his father, who strongly supported his commitment to Ghana over England.

“My dad was so happy,” Semenyo revealed. “He was celebrating and saying, ‘Yeah, you don’t play for England!’ Everyone in my family supports Ghana passionately.”

The Bournemouth attacker also carries a strong footballing heritage. His father, Larry Semenyo, played in Ghana’s top flight and even featured alongside legendary striker Tony Yeboah.

Looking ahead to the tournament, Semenyo is relishing the prospect of facing England but remains focused on helping Ghana progress from the group stage.

“It’s going to be tough,” he said. “But we’re looking forward to it.”

Ghana will take on England in their second group match on June 23, in what promises to be a highly anticipated encounter, with the Black Stars aiming to make a strong statement on the world stage.

Semenyo's first competitive goal for Ghana came in the sixth minute of stoppage time in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Angola on 23 March 2023, giving the Black Stars a 1-0 win

He has since made 34 appearances for Ghana, netting three goals.