Semenyo Backs Black Stars to Defy Odds at 2026 World Cup
Black Stars forward Antoine Semenyo believes Ghana has the quality and depth to surprise many of the world’s top teams at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite entering the tournament as one of the lower-ranked nations in the competition.
Ghana head into the global showpiece ranked 73rd in the FIFA rankings, making them the lowest-ranked African side among the continent’s representatives. The Black Stars trail fellow African contenders such as Morocco, who sit seventh in the world rankings, and Senegal, who are ranked 14th.
However, Semenyo insists rankings will count for little once the tournament gets underway in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The Bournemouth attacker is confident that the talent available within the Ghana squad gives the Black Stars every chance of making a strong impression on the international stage.
Speaking to FIFA ahead of the tournament, Semenyo highlighted the strength and balance within the squad as reasons for optimism.
“There’s so many positions that we’ve got covered.”
The forward believes Ghana’s ability to call upon quality players across the pitch could prove decisive as they prepare to face some of the world’s best teams.
“There’s so much talent in there and I feel like when we do come together, it’s a special group and just endless talent and I feel like we can shock a lot of nations and we just need to prove to the world you can be up there and compete with everyone else,” Semenyo said.
His comments reflect the growing belief within the Black Stars camp that Ghana can exceed expectations despite being drawn into a challenging Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama.
Ghana recently completed part of their preparations with a 1-1 draw against Wales, a result that provided several encouraging signs for head coach Carlos Queiroz as he continues to shape the team ahead of the tournament.
The Black Stars are currently based in the United States, where they are continuing their preparations before their final warm-up fixture against Jamaica on June 10.
Ghana will begin their World Cup campaign against Panama before taking on England and Croatia in their remaining group matches.
While many observers may view the Black Stars as outsiders, Semenyo believes the squad possesses the talent, unity and belief required to compete with any nation and potentially emerge as one of the tournament’s surprise packages.
