Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo has cautioned the Ghana national football team against underestimating Panama national football team as they prepare to begin their campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ghana will open their tournament against Panama on June 17 in Toronto before taking on European heavyweights Croatia national football team and England national football team in what many observers have described as a difficult Group L.
While much of the attention from fans and pundits has focused on the anticipated clash with England, Semenyo believes the opening game against Panama could prove just as crucial for Ghana’s hopes of progressing to the knockout stages.
“It’s a tough group because you can’t underestimate Panama,” Semenyo said.
“You think it’s easy, but it’s not that easy. It will be a tough game; they won’t be a pushover.”
The 26-year-old forward is expected to play a key role for the Black Stars as they attempt to navigate the challenging group stage and reach the knockout rounds of the tournament.
Semenyo acknowledged the strength of Ghana’s other group opponents but emphasized that the team’s main goal remains advancing beyond the first round.
“Croatia and England are obviously top teams. Trying to get out of the group is what we want essentially, but it’s not going to be easy at all.”
The striker, who chose to represent Ghana internationally despite being eligible to play for England, is preparing for his second World Cup appearance after featuring at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
“It’s going to be tough, but yeah, I’m looking forward to it,” he added.
Ghana head into the tournament with a squad that is undergoing a period of transition, blending experienced players with emerging talents. Semenyo admitted that competing at the highest level will be challenging, particularly with some key players unavailable.
Nevertheless, the forward remains determined to make an impact as the Black Stars aim to rise to the occasion on football’s biggest stage and progress beyond the group phase.
