Semenyo says no regret picking Ghana over England
Black Stars forward Antoine Semenyo says he has no regrets about choosing Ghana over England as he prepares for a potential World Cup meeting with the country of his birth. Ghana are set to face England on June 23, 2026, in their FIFA World Cup Group L clash, scheduled for 4:00 PM ET (Boston, USA), and 10:00 PM Central Africa Time (CAT).
Born in England to Ghanaian parents, the Manchester City forward says representing Ghana has always been a source of pride and a decision he still stands by years after his first senior call-up. Speaking in his role as Global Brand Ambassador for Ahmad Tea, Semenyo reflected on his decision to commit his international future to the Black Stars.
He recalled receiving Ghana’s invitation in his early twenties, describing it as an opportunity he was never going to turn down. He also noted that he was not involved with England’s youth setups, and with strong family ties to Ghana, the choice felt natural.
According to him, his father’s pride and the chance to create lasting memories for the Black Stars made the decision straightforward. Having grown up in England, Semenyo is also familiar with the intense expectations placed on the Three Lions at major tournaments, where media pressure and national hope often collide.
“I got a call from Ghana when I was 20 or 21, I could never say no to that. I’ve already got to represent my country at a World Cup and now I’m heading into my second one. I was never in the England underage teams so never thought of it as a possibility. My family also love Ghana, they all support them,” said Semenyo.
He observed that while the scrutiny is heavy, similar pressures exist for other top nations as well. On England’s chances, Semenyo acknowledged their quality and depth, describing them as genuine contenders for the trophy. However, he added that Ghana would aim to compete strongly and would welcome the chance to cause an upset.
He stressed that a win over England would be significant for Ghana, not just in terms of results but also as a statement of intent on the global stage. While admitting it would be a difficult challenge against one of the tournament favourites, he insisted Ghana have the quality to compete with anyone.
“Huge. As I said, we believe we can give anyone a game and to go out there and beat a team like England would send a real message that we mean business at the World Cup. It will be difficult, they’re one of the favourites, but we have a good team and nothing is impossible.”
The potential fixture would also bring familiar faces across the pitch. Having played alongside and against several England-based players, including teammates at Manchester City and former opponents from his Bournemouth days, Semenyo expects a friendly build-up filled with banter, but no compromise once the match begins.
He made it clear that, despite the friendships, his focus would be on winning, just as it would be for his opponents. Semenyo’s familiarity will not translate into divided loyalty when Ghana meets England on football’s biggest stage.
“I’ve told Nico [O’Reilly], Marc [Guehi] and John [Stones] I’m coming for them! There will probably be some banter in the build up to the game and it will be great to go up against them. Obviously I’ve played against them for Bournemouth before and trained so much with them at City now so I know what to expect but this is a whole new stage. It will be great to see them, James [Trafford] is obviously in the squad too, but as close as we are, I’m playing to win. As I’m absolutely certain they will be too.”
Source: Written by Oral Ofori for TheAfricanDream.net
