ABIDJAN, IVORY COAST – JANUARY 14: ANTOINE SERLOM SEMENYO of Ghana (right) and STEVEN MOREIRA of Cape Verde during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of NationsGhana and Manchester City star, Antoine Semenyo, believes African football is close to reaching its pinnacle following the heroics of teams like Cape Verde and Morocco at the recently concluded World Cup.Cape Verde, who were making their debut on the world stage, shocked many fans after taking then-champions Argentina to extra-time in their round of 32 clash. The little West African nation produced one of the best performances by an African nation at the World Cup in the game against the Lionel Messi-led side but a late Diney own-goal sent them packing.While they left the competition, they won themselves the support of the world.However, Semenyo was not surprised by what Cape Verde showed in North America, reflecting on his first encounter against the Blue Sharks.
We played against them in the Africa Cup of Nations in 2022. I remember coming off that game thinking, Oh my gosh, this is one of the best African teams Ive played. They were so, so good. So this wasnt any news to us, but obviously to the world it was, Semenyo told CNN Sports.
It shows African football is evolving. It shows the world were competing at the highest levels. Long may it continue.
Semenyo featured at the World Cup for Ghana’s Black Stars as the team reached the last 32, finishing the tournament as the 24th best side.
The 26-year-old is now preparing for the new season with Manchester City following an outstanding first campaign with the Citizens.
