“We want to finish off right”- Semenyo
Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo says the Black Stars have used outside criticism as motivation as they prepare for their decisive FIFA World Cup Group L clash against Croatia, insisting the squad remains confident and united despite being written off before the tournament.
The Manchester City attacker revealed that the players have blocked out negative opinions and are fully focused on securing qualification for the Round of 32.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s encounter at Lincoln Financial Field, Semenyo described the atmosphere within the camp as positive following Ghana’s hard-earned goalless draw against England, a result that left the Black Stars level on four points at the top of Group L.
“Everyone’s ready. Everyone was very happy with the result against England,” Semenyo said.
“And we know how important this next game is. We want to make sure we finish off right, get into the next round and continue preparing, fighting as a team.”
The 25-year-old acknowledged that Croatia would provide another stern examination but believes Ghana are mentally prepared for the challenge.
“It’s going to be a tough game tomorrow. But everyone’s ready, everyone’s excited and good to go.”
Semenyo also addressed the criticism that surrounded the Black Stars before the World Cup, revealing that many questioned the team’s ability to compete at the highest level.
“Yeah, I mean, a lot of pundits wrote us off. And that’s just opinion at the end of the day,” he said. “We know what we can do as a team.”
The forward credited head coach Carlos Queiroz for reshaping the squad since taking charge, praising the Portuguese manager’s tactical approach and the balance he has brought to the team.
“The manager’s obviously come in, brought in his philosophy. And it’s worked out perfectly for us,” Semenyo said. “We’re a lot more defensively solid, for sure.”
Despite Ghana’s improved defensive organisation, Semenyo believes the Black Stars have also maintained their attacking threat.
“And we can definitely create chances. So, yeah, it’s been great so far.”
Ghana head into the final group fixture knowing victory over Croatia will guarantee a place in the Round of 32 and could see them finish top of Group L.
After collecting four points from their opening two matches, the Black Stars are aiming to cap an impressive group-stage campaign with another strong performance and carry valuable momentum into the knockout phase.
