In May 2022, Bristol City forward Antoine Semenyo expressed his enthusiasm and readiness to represent Ghana’s Black Stars in the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The young striker, who has been making waves in the English Championship, is eager to make his mark on the international stage.
Ghana has been drawn into Group E alongside Madagascar, Angola, and the Central African Republic, setting the stage for a competitive qualification campaign.
Semenyo’s determination to showcase his talent reflects his lifelong connection to the Black Stars and his ambition to contribute to their success.
Overcoming Setbacks
Semenyo’s journey to the Black Stars has not been without challenges. An injury sidelined him from a potential debut during the 2022 FIFA World Cup playoffs against Nigeria, a missed opportunity that only fueled his resolve.
In an interview with Accra-based Happy FM, the 22-year-old shared his deep-rooted passion for the national team, noting,
“I have followed the Black Stars all my life.
I always follow the qualifiers.”
His recovery and return to form have positioned him as a strong candidate for the AFCON qualifiers scheduled for June 2022, where he aims to prove his worth to both fans and the coaching staff.
Stellar Performances at Club Level
Semenyo’s confidence stems from a productive season with Bristol City in the English Championship.
By May 2022, he had scored eight goals in 30 appearances, demonstrating his flair and goal-scoring ability.
His performances have caught the attention of Ghana’s coaching staff, who see him as a potential asset in their quest to secure qualification for the 2023 AFCON.
Semenyo’s versatility and physicality make him well-suited to the demands of international football, particularly on the African continent, where he believes he is mentally and physically prepared to compete.
A Chance to Shine
For Semenyo, the AFCON qualifiers represent an opportunity to establish himself among Ghanaian fans and within the Black Stars setup.
“I haven’t established myself to the Ghana fans and coach, so I want to play as many games so I can show the people what I can do,” he told Happy FM.
His hunger to perform underscores a broader ambition to contribute to Ghana’s storied football legacy, which includes four AFCON titles.
As the Black Stars aim to end a 40-year title drought, Semenyo’s potential inclusion could add a fresh dynamic to the squad.
Ghana’s Path in Group E
Drawn in Group E, the Black Stars face a challenging yet navigable path to qualify for the 2023 AFCON, set to be hosted in Ivory Coast.
Matches against Madagascar, Angola, and the Central African Republic will test the team’s depth and resilience.
Semenyo’s readiness to embrace this challenge aligns with Ghana’s broader goal of reclaiming their status as African football giants.
His potential debut could mark the beginning of a significant international career, adding firepower to a team eager to succeed on the continental stage.
Looking Ahead
As the June 2022 qualifiers approached, Semenyo’s focus was clear: to seize his opportunity and make a lasting impression.
His blend of skill, determination, and passion for the Black Stars positions him as a player to watch. For Ghanaian fans, his potential debut offers hope for a new generation of talent to carry the nation forward in their AFCON journey.
