Antoine Semenyo has issued a firm warning that Ghana cannot afford to become one of the World Cup’s early casualties as the Black Stars prepare to open their campaign against Panama. The Manchester City forward believes a strong, disciplined start is essential if Ghana is to improve on its disappointing group‑stage exit in 2022 and push toward the knockout rounds this summer. Semenyo stressed the importance of Ghana’s opening fixture, noting that Panama will be anything but an easy opponent.
“It is very important; Panama won’t be an easy game. They’ll be up for it, they will want to cause a shock and we have to be right at it. We don’t want to end up as one of those teams on the review of the World Cup where they go on about the shock of the tournament or whatever. We want to win and win well — it can set us up for a great tournament.” While many may view Panama as underdogs, Semenyo insists the Black Stars are taking nothing for granted as they target a positive opening result.
Preparation as a Way of Life
Preparation, Semenyo says, has become a defining part of his development — a philosophy that aligns with his partnership with Ahmad Tea.
“One of their important messages is that preparation is everything. They’re talking about making their tea, and in that is a message I live by in my career: you have to be ready.
That is not just on the day of a game — eating right, having your kit ready — but also how you prepare in the week. Training properly, recovering thoroughly, eating right, studying opponents, reflecting, letting things breathe, brewing the plan of action.
Ahmad Tea is about bringing a quality product to customers by ensuring everything is of the highest standard, consistently — and that is what I believe in.”
Family, Pride, and the Ghanaian Spirit
Representing Ghana remains a deeply personal source of pride for Semenyo and his family, who will be in the stands when the Black Stars face Panama.
“My whole family support Ghana and I hope to do them proud. They’re crazy when watching the games — it’s loud at home and a time for the family to come together.
You couldn’t believe the atmosphere when we score — nothing beats it. Having some family at the Panama game will be a very special moment.”
Pressure, Expectation, and the Weight of the Jersey
As one of the faces of Ghana’s World Cup campaign, Semenyo is fully aware of the expectations that come with representing one of Africa’s most passionate football nations. Former captain Asamoah Gyan recently suggested that the spotlight would be on Semenyo to deliver, but the forward embraces that responsibility.
“Pressure is on all of us as a team every time we pull on the Black Stars jersey. We all know the pressure that comes with playing for Ghana.
The fans are so passionate. If you give the ball away a few times and we don’t get the win, people will have something to say — that’s just how it is, and we accept that. They expect success, and we know that.
But for me, that pressure is a privilege. It inspires us to keep improving. Every time I go out there, I just want to do my best and make the country proud.”
Setting the Tone for the Tournament
A victory over Panama would provide the perfect platform for Ghana as tougher challenges await. It would also send an early message to the rest of the tournament that the Black Stars are not in North America merely to participate — they are here to compete. If Semenyo’s confidence and clarity of purpose are any indication, Ghana enters this World Cup determined to make its mark on football’s biggest stage.
About Ahmad Tea
Antoine Semenyo is the new Global Brand Ambassador for Ahmad Tea, one of the world’s leading family‑owned tea companies. For more information about Ahmad Tea and its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability, visit www.ahmadtea.com.
I hope the players are not selfish and pass the ball at the right time .