Black Stars Must Be Bolder With Referees, Says Semenyo After England Penalty Row

Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo has called on his Black Stars teammates to take a more aggressive approach towards match officials, following controversial decisions in the team's recent draw with England.

The Manchester City star was critical of referees who failed to award Ghana a penalty after Prince Adu Kwabena was fouled by Ezri Konsa in the box. Semenyo highlighted that this was the second time in the same match that officials ignored clear fouls on Ghanaian players, with one incident being flagged but not reviewed despite clear contact in the penalty area.

Speaking ahead of Ghana's final Group L fixture against Croatia on Saturday, June 27, Semenyo revealed the team has already addressed the issue during training. "As players, we need to dangle around the referee and complain," he said. "We need to be more aggressive around the officials. Players need to stay down a bit longer if they're fouled, and obviously the coach is on the touchline putting pressure on the fourth official."

The Black Stars currently sit on four points alongside England in the group standings. A victory or draw against Croatia could secure Ghana's progression to the knockout stages, depending on the outcome of England's match against Panama.