Black Stars forward Antoine Semenyo says Ghana’s upcoming group-stage match against England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a major challenge — but one the team is determined to embrace.
Ghana and England have been drawn together in the same group for the tournament co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States. They are joined by Croatia and Panama.
The fixture will be the first competitive meeting between the two nations since a friendly in October 2011.
Speaking to CBS Sports Golazo, Semenyo — who has spent his entire professional career in England and now plays for Manchester City — addressed the growing pre-match banter among players and the expectations surrounding the game.
“There’s been a small talk, but as Ghanaians, we know it’s going to be a challenge; they are a star-studded team, they have so many top-class players, but we believe in our sources,” he said.
“We want to show people around the world that Ghana are one of the top nations as well, and that we can compete with the best. There’s been a little bit [of banter], but we will wait and see.”
The 24-year-old, who has featured in Ghana’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers, is expected to play a key role in the Black Stars’ campaign as they aim to make a strong statement on the global stage.
Ghana’s group draw has already generated huge excitement among supporters, with the England match widely viewed as the headline fixture of the group phase.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first edition expanded to 48 teams, giving more African nations a chance to compete at the highest level.
