Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo has said the Black Stars want to compete strongly at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and represent the country with pride, as preparations begin following qualification for the tournament in North America.
Semenyo’s comments come after Ghana booked a place at the expanded 48-team finals, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. FIFA reported that Ghana secured qualification with a 1-0 win over Comoros to finish top of their CAF qualifying group.
Antoine Semenyo highlights performance and identity
In remarks published by Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, Semenyo said Ghana’s supporters and players want to “show our culture” at the World Cup, pointing to the atmosphere created by Ghanaian fans through singing and dancing at major tournaments. He added that the team wants a strong showing in the United States.
Alongside that message, Semenyo framed the tournament as a test of performance. He said the Black Stars want to prove they can compete against top opponents on football’s biggest stage.
Ghana qualification sets the stage for 2026 build-up
CAF’s match report on the decisive qualifier said Mohammed Kudus scored the second-half winner against Comoros in Accra, sealing Ghana’s ticket to the finals and marking the country’s fifth World Cup appearance.
Ghana previously reached the quarter-finals in 2010, which remains the nation’s best finish at the tournament. As a result, expectations typically rise when the Black Stars return to the global stage, especially among supporters at home and in the diaspora.
Focus shifts to preparation and selection
With qualification secured, attention now turns to how the technical team prepares for the finals, including squad competition and match readiness. Semenyo’s statements place the emphasis on both results and representation, as Ghana aims to deliver on the pitch while also projecting a clear national identity at the tournament.
