Africa’s greatest World Cup scorer has spoken — and he’s backing the Black Stars.
Speaking at PUMA’s “Rolling Nations” event in New York City ahead of the tournament, Ghana legend Asamoah Gyan — Africa’s all-time top scorer at the FIFA World Cup — described Semenyo as the “poster boy” of the current Black Stars squad, insisting his influence will be central to Ghana’s hopes of improving on recent disappointments.
“Everything Depends on Semenyo”
Semenyo enjoyed a standout club season — first impressing for AFC Bournemouth with 10 goals and 3 assists, before completing a January move to Manchester City, where he added 11 goals and 3 assists while helping his new club secure two domestic trophies.
But Gyan knows the step up to international football brings a different kind of weight.
“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 — but as a former player and a striker, I have to put myself in his shoes. There will be a bit of pressure because of where he’s playing now. When you’re playing for one of the best teams in the world and you come into the national team, there will be a lot of expectations.”
Gyan went further: “He’s 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.”
Facing England — Gyan Relishes It
Gyan was asked about Ghana’s Group L clash with England, and the old fire was clearly still there: “I’m very happy about that — especially playing against England.” Ghana will be hoping to make another statement on the big stage.
Ghana will begin their 2026 World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 before facing England and Croatia in their remaining Group L matches.
The Missing Piece — Kudus Ruled Out
With Mohammed Kudus ruled out of the tournament through injury, Semenyo is widely expected to shoulder much of Ghana’s attacking responsibility in North America — making Gyan’s words even more significant.
Ghana’s 2026 World Cup at a Glance
Ghana are Africa’s lowest-ranked nation at this World Cup, currently sitting 74th in the world. Their best ever finish remains the 2010 quarter-final — the run inspired by Gyan himself, before that heartbreaking penalty shootout against Uruguay.
Semenyo, born in London but never in doubt about his allegiance, explained it simply: “My mum and dad are Ghana through and through. They never really talked about England.”
One man carrying a nation’s dreams. The Black Stars are ready.