Former Ghana international Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has called on Antoine Semenyo to play a decisive role in the Black Stars’ bid to progress beyond the group stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ghana, four-time African champions, are targeting a return to the knockout phase of the global tournament for the first time since 2010 after group-stage exits in 2014 and 2022.

Semenyo, widely regarded as one of the team’s key attacking outlets, is expected to shoulder significant responsibility in a squad that blends experience with emerging talent.

The forward enjoyed a productive campaign in Europe, scoring more than 20 goals across all competitions, including a strong Premier League return across spells with Bournemouth and Manchester City.

Agyemang-Badu praised the forward’s development and urged the national team to create the right conditions for him to thrive.

“Yes, he’s our poster boy,” Agyemang-Badu told Graphic Sports.

“From his former club to Man City, he’s worked under great coaches and been given the freedom to express himself, and that’s how we need to use him.

“He needs space so he can progress the ball well because he uses both feet, is very strong on the ball, and is a very intelligent player.

“So for now, you rely on him, but without pressure. We don’t want to pressure him. He should come home, enjoy his football and help us qualify from the group," the U-20 World Cup winner who played at the 2014 World Cup added.

The Black Stars have already opened camp in Cardiff with 22 players preparing for their pre-tournament friendly against Wales on June 2. Head coach Carlos Queiroz is expected to name his final squad shortly before the match.

Ghana has been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia, beginning their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field. They will then face England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium before concluding their group fixtures against Croatia on June 27.