2026 World Cup: Antoine Semenyo will be a 'decisive maker' for Black Stars - Asamoah Gyan

Ghana legend Asamoah Gyan has tipped Antoine Semenyo to emerge as a decisive figure for the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted across 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 for AFC Bournemouth, registering 10 goals and three assists, before completing a January move to Manchester City FC.

The 26-year-old maintained his impressive form after the switch, adding 11 goals and three assists while helping his new club secure two domestic trophies in a successful season.

His performances have further cemented his reputation as one of Ghana’s most important attacking options heading into football’s biggest tournament.

Speaking at the Rolling Nations event in New York City, Gyan—Africa’s all-time top scorer at the FIFA World Cup—described Semenyo as the current “face” of the Black Stars.

According to him, Ghana’s fortunes at the tournament could heavily hinge on the forward’s impact as the team looks to improve on back-to-back group-stage exits in 2014 and 2022.

“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.

The former Black Stars captain, who featured at the 2006, 2010 and 2014 World Cups, also warned that the forward will carry significant expectations into the tournament.

“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 international friendlies against Wales and Jamaica ahead of the tournament.

Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama. Their campaign begins on June 17 against Panama at BMO Field, before facing England and concluding the group stage against Croatia.

After successive early exits at recent tournaments, Ghana will be aiming to reach the knockout stages for the first time since their memorable quarter-final run in 2010.