2026 World Cup: I am mentally stronger and ready to contribute - Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo

Antoine Semenyo says he is mentally prepared and eager to play a major role as Ghana targets a strong campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The forward, who was instrumental in the Black Stars’ qualification for the tournament, is expected to be one of the key figures for Ghana when the competition kicks off across the USA, Canada and Mexico this summer.

Fresh from winning two domestic titles with Manchester City in his debut season, Semenyo believes he is now better equipped to make a significant impact at his second World Cup appearance.

“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.

"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 already opened camp as preparations intensify ahead of the global showpiece.

After missing the recent friendly against Mexico, Semenyo is expected to return to action when Ghana face Wales on June 2 at Cardiff City Stadium.

The four-time African champions will be making their fifth appearance at the World Cup and have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.

Ghana will open their campaign against Panama at BMO Field on June 17 before facing England at Gillette Stadium on June 23.

The Black Stars will wrap up their group-stage fixtures 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 aiming to reach the knockout stages for the first time in more than a decade.

Head coach Carlos Queiroz is also expected to name his final 26-man squad before the friendly clash against Wales.