"We can shock a lot of nations" – Semenyo confident Black Stars can compete with the best

Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo believes the Black Stars have what it takes to surprise many of the world's top teams at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that the current squad possesses the talent and quality needed to compete with the best on the global stage.

With Ghana preparing for their fifth appearance at football's biggest tournament, expectations are steadily building ahead of the competition in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Despite the challenges that lie ahead, Semenyo remains confident that the Black Stars can make a significant impact if they perform to their potential.

The 26-year-old highlighted the unity and quality within the squad, expressing his belief that Ghana can rewrite the narrative surrounding the team.

"I feel like when we do come together, such a special group with endless talent, and I feel we can shock a lot of nations. We just need to prove to the world that we can be up there and compete with everyone else. I feel like that's the only question right now. So once we do that, that would be the story rewritten," Semenyo said.

The forward has emerged as one of Ghana's most important attacking players in recent years and is expected to play a leading role for the Black Stars in North America. His confidence reflects the growing belief within the camp that Ghana can compete with some of the tournament's biggest nations.

Semenyo also opened up about his decision to represent Ghana internationally, revealing that accepting the call to play for the Black Stars was never a difficult choice.

"Ghana came when I was 19 or 20, so I was never going to turn it down. It's a dream come true, to be honest," he added.

The striker further explained that his family fully supported his decision, despite occasional suggestions that he should pursue an international career with England.

"My mum and dad, they never really mentioned anything about England. Obviously living in England, you get a conversation, 'Oh, you should represent England,' but it was never a conversation I've ever had, really. It means a lot just cheering on Ghana, and they're cheering me on. It's great support, and I just love every memory."

Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia, with the Black Stars set to begin their campaign against Panama on June 17.

For Semenyo, the challenge ahead is one he is embracing with confidence. Having fulfilled his dream of representing Ghana, the next objective is helping the Black Stars prove that they belong among the world's elite and showing that this talented generation is capable of making history on football's biggest stage.