$World Cup 2026: We knew we wouldn\'t have much of the ball against England â?? Semenyo$

World Cup 2026: We knew we wouldn't have much of the ball against England â?? Semenyo

Wed 24th Jun, 2026 20:53

Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo has admitted that the Black Stars knew they would have to defend for long periods against England, but insisted the team's discipline and sacrifice were key to securing a valuable 0-0 draw in their World Cup Group L clash.

England dominated possession with 79% of the ball â€“ the highest recorded by a team that failed to score in a World Cup match in six decades â€“ but were unable to break down Ghana's stubborn defence.

"We defended for most of the game. We knew it would be like that. We needed to stay in our shape and put our bodies on the line. We did that today," Semenyo said.

The Manchester City forward acknowledged that it was not an easy night for Ghana's attackers, who were often required to work defensively rather than focus on creating chances.

"Every attacker wants to be on the ball rather than off the ball, but it's what the team needed. It was tough today. Props to the team; we knew we wouldn't have much of the ball and go forward as much as we wanted to. Hopefully, we can go on to get through."

Despite their defensive focus, Ghana still threatened on the counterattack and came close to snatching all three points. Reflecting on one such opportunity, Semenyo admitted the moment unfolded too quickly for him to react perfectly.

"It happened so fast, I tried to move out of the way. We get forward really quickly. We're unlucky not to get that goal."

The draw leaves Ghana level on four points with England at the top of Group L, with Croatia just one point behind. A point against Croatia in their final group match would almost certainly secure Ghana's place in the knockout stages for the first time since 2010.

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World Cup 2026: 'We Knew England Would Keep the Ball More' – Semenyo

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