Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo has opened up about his pride in representing Ghana on the international stage, describing it as one of the greatest honours of his life and a dream come true for his family.
Speaking in an interview with the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), the England-born striker said wearing the Black Stars jersey carries deep emotional and cultural significance for him.
“I’m representing my family and friends when playing for Ghana,” Semenyo said. “For my family, it’s significant; my dad played in Ghana years ago.”
Semenyo, who was born in Chelsea, England, to Ghanaian parents, revealed that his decision to play for Ghana was driven by his love for his heritage and his desire to honour his father’s footballing roots. His father, Larry Semenyo, grew up in Accra and played for the local side Okwawu United, where he shared the pitch with Ghanaian football legend Tony Yeboah.
The Bournemouth star said his first national team call-up in May 2022 remains one of the most emotional moments of his life.
“My mum was crying on the phone. Dad doesn’t really jump up too much, but he was so excited. Everyone was screaming when I told them,” Semenyo recalled with a smile.
That emotional moment marked the start of what has since become a proud international journey. Since making his debut in 2022, Semenyo has gone on to earn 31 caps and score three goals for the Black Stars — a testament to his growing importance in Ghana’s attacking setup.
The 24-year-old attacker also spoke about the honour of competing in major tournaments, particularly the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), a competition he grew up watching with his parents.
“I’ve watched AFCON all my life with my parents, so to be involved is an honour,” he said. “It’s a massive deal — it’s like bragging rights in Africa.”
Semenyo’s comments reflect not just his connection to Ghana but also his understanding of what representing the national team means to millions of fans back home. His passion, humility, and commitment to the Black Stars have endeared him to supporters both in Ghana and across the diaspora.
His journey to international recognition has been one of perseverance and steady progress. Semenyo began his professional career at Bristol City, where he developed a reputation as a powerful and versatile forward capable of playing across multiple attacking positions. His breakthrough came during the 2021/22 Championship season, when his pace, strength, and direct style of play attracted attention from Premier League scouts.
In January 2023, AFC Bournemouth secured his signature, marking a major step forward in his career. Since joining the Cherries, Semenyo has adapted impressively to the demands of England’s top flight, earning praise for his work ethic, physicality, and explosive runs down the flank.
His performances have also earned him regular call-ups to the Ghana national team, where he has continued to grow in confidence. Under the guidance of national coach Otto Addo, Semenyo has been a key option in attack, bringing energy and unpredictability to the forward line.
For Semenyo, the experience of representing Ghana goes far beyond football. It is deeply tied to his family’s history and a symbol of the sacrifices his parents made to build a better life.
“My dad always told me stories about Ghanaian football, and I always dreamed of one day wearing that jersey,” he said. “Now, every time I play for Ghana, I feel like I’m honouring my family and where we come from.”
The Bournemouth star’s deep connection to his roots mirrors that of several players in Ghana’s current generation who were born abroad but chose to represent their ancestral homeland. Like teammates Mohammed Kudus, Tariq Lamptey, and Inaki Williams, Semenyo’s pride in wearing the Black Stars shirt is a powerful reminder of the global identity of modern Ghanaian football.
Fans and analysts have praised his hunger and determination, particularly during World Cup qualifiers and AFCON campaigns. His ability to press defenders, create chances, and score crucial goals has made him one of Ghana’s most reliable attacking options in recent years.
As Ghana prepares for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Semenyo’s role is expected to grow even more significant. His chemistry with attacking partners like Kudus and Williams continues to develop, giving the Black Stars a strong attacking foundation.
Off the field, Semenyo has also become a role model for many young players of Ghanaian descent in the UK, inspiring them to embrace their identity and pursue their dreams with pride.
His humility, discipline, and love for his heritage shine through every time he steps onto the pitch — qualities that have made him not just a rising star in the Premier League, but a national hero back home.
With years ahead of him at both club and international level, Antoine Semenyo’s journey is still unfolding — but one thing is clear: his heart beats for Ghana.
“Every time I wear the Ghana jersey, it’s emotional,” he said. “It means everything to me and my family. I’ll keep giving my all for the country — that’s my promise.”
— Africa Live News
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