'Poster boy' Antoine Semenyo must lead Black Stars' World Cup charge - Agyemang-Badu

Former Ghana international Emmanuel Agyemang Badu has thrown his support behind Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo, urging him to play a central role in the Black Stars’ bid to progress from Group L at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ghana have been drawn alongside Croatia, England and Panama in a demanding group, with expectations high as they prepare for their fifth appearance at the global showpiece.

With captain Jordan Ayew’s recent form under scrutiny and Mohammed Kudus sidelined through injury, coach Carlos Queiroz is expected to lean heavily on Semenyo as a key attacking outlet.

Badu, who earned 78 caps for Ghana, called for patience and encouragement for the forward as he adapts to the responsibility of leading the line.

“He is our poster boy from his former club to Manchester City, has been with a great coach, and he has given him ample time to do whatever he wants on the pitch,” Agyemang Badu told Pan Africa Football.

“And that’s why we have to use him, and I think he needs a bit of space so that he can progress the ball very well because he is good with both legs. He is very strong on the ball and a very intelligent player.

“So for now, we will rely on him without any pressure; we don’t want to put pressure on him. He should come and enjoy his football and just help us to qualify from the group without pressure.”

Ghana begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, before facing England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.

The Black Stars will be targeting a return to the knockout stages for the first time since their quarter-final run at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.