Semenyo hails Modrić as Ghana eyes knockout stage against Croatia

Confidence high as Ghana targets progression

Ghana's Black Stars are heading into Saturday's FIFA World Cup Group L encounter against Croatia with renewed belief after securing a hard-fought draw against England. Forward Antoine Semenyo has been speaking ahead of the decisive clash, expressing the team's determination to progress beyond the group stage—a goal that eluded them at the previous tournament.

Semenyo reflected on Ghana's previous World Cup disappointment: "Last time we didn't get out of the group and it was a huge disappointment, but this time, if we can get through, then who knows what will happen. We are here to win, we want to make the Ghana fans happy, and the longer we are in the tournament, the bigger the party will be."

Respect for a modern great

Semenyo paid tribute to Croatia captain Luka Modrić, describing the Real Madrid legend as one of the finest midfielders of the modern era. Despite expectations that the 2018 World Cup final runner-up would have retired by now, Modrić—like Messi and Ronaldo—has returned to compete at the highest level. "It will be great to share the pitch with a great player like him," Semenyo said, noting Modrić's exceptional passing, technical ability and game intelligence.

English football connections

Semenyo acknowledged he would renew acquaintances with Croatia internationals Joško Gvardiol and Mateo Kovačić, both of whom he faces regularly in English football. However, he made clear that friendships would be set aside once the match kicked off. "Like the England guys, I'm sure there will be some messages in the build-up. It will be great to see them, and I hope we can get the better of them, but they're two great players who won't make it easy for us."

Victory would secure Ghana's passage to the knockout stage and strengthen the Black Stars' belief in their ability to mount a memorable campaign in Qatar.