Antoine Semenyo capped a tireless display on the right wing as Ghana began their World Cup campaign with a win on Wednesday.

The Manchester City forward was a constant threat to the Panama defence, using his pace and direct running to create Ghana’s most dangerous moments. Semenyo played a key role in the build-up to Caleb Yirenkyi’s 95th-minute winner, stretching Panama with his movement before Abdul Fatawu Issahaku found Yirenkyi to score.

Selected in Carlos Queiroz’s starting XI alongside four World Cup debutants, Semenyo tracked back to help Marvin Senaya defensively and carried the ball forward with purpose throughout the 90 minutes.

“I’m just happy we got the three points. It’s a dream to play at the World Cup and to help the team win the first game means everything,” Semenyo said after receiving his award.

Semenyo was one of Ghana’s brightest players in a disciplined team performance that saw the Black Stars keep a clean sheet and claim the three points ahead of matches against England and Croatia.

This is Semenyo’s second FIFA World Cup tournament, having made his Black Stars debut in 2022.