Ghana international Antoine Semenyo emerged as the match-winner for Manchester City FC after scoring the decisive goal in their 1-0 victory over Chelsea FC in the 2025/26 Emirates FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium.
The Black Stars forward produced the defining moment of the contest in the 71st minute, cleverly redirecting a cross from Erling Haaland with the inside of his foot to finally break the deadlock in a tense and fiercely contested final.
Semenyo’s goal proved enough to hand Manchester City another major trophy and secured the club’s 20th title under manager Pep Guardiola, further extending the Spaniard’s remarkable legacy at the Etihad Stadium.
The Ghanaian attacker capped off an outstanding week in style, having also found the net in City’s 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace earlier in the week. His impressive performances throughout the campaign also earned him a nomination for the Premier League Player of the Season award.
Speaking to the BBC after the final, Semenyo reflected on his decisive strike and the significance of winning trophies at the highest level.
“It has happened a couple of times in training – it happened perfectly today. Everything happened so fast to be honest.”
“It came straight to me and I had to improvise myself as quickly as I can. I have never competed for trophies like this before, so everything is new to me.”
The 25-year-old also admitted the goal represented a dream moment in his football journey.
“It is a good finish, I can’t lie. As a kid I have always wanted to be playing for the top teams – it took a long time to get there, but I am grateful.”
Semenyo’s rapid rise from the lower divisions of English football to becoming an FA Cup-winning hero at Wembley continues to inspire Ghanaian football fans, with the forward now firmly established among the Premier League’s elite attacking talents.
