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Get ready for Africa’s soccer breakout, says Manchester City star Antoine Semenyo
During the 2026 World Cup, Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo noted Africa's record-breaking performance as nine of 10 competing African nations advanced to the knockout stages. "It shows African football is evolving," Semenyo said.
Born in England to Ghanaian parents, Semenyo's path to elite soccer was unconventional, involving early rejections and a non-league journey before joining Manager Pep Guardiola's City from AFC Bournemouth in January.
Semenyo scored 17 league goals this season, breaking former player Tony Yeboah's record for most by a Ghanaian in a single campaign, and played every minute of Ghana's Black Stars World Cup run including a 0-0 draw against England.
Enzo Maresca has taken over as City manager, replacing Guardiola. Semenyo said the team is adapting quickly to the new tactical approach, noting "everyone's buying into it."
Africa's soccer evolution is now clear for the world to witness, Semenyo emphasized during a CNN Sports interview at the Hong Kong Football Festival, noting the continent's success catapulted it among the best in world soccer.