The Manchester City forward believes victory in their opening match is essential if Ghana are to avoid the disappointments of previous tournaments and build momentum towards the knockout rounds.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Semenyo stressed the importance of treating Panama with complete respect despite their underdog status.
"It is very important, Panama won’t be an easy game. They’ll be up for it, they will want to cause a shock and we have to be right at it," Semenyo, , the new Global Brand Ambassador for Ahmad Tea, told Football Presse.
"We don’t want to end up as one of those teams on the review of the World Cup where they go on about the shock of the tournament or whatever. We want to win and win well, it can set us up for a great tournament."
Ghana enter the competition carrying the hopes of one of Africa's most passionate football nations, with expectations growing that the Black Stars can make a significant impact on the world stage.
Preparation has become a major focus for Semenyo throughout his career and is one of the reasons he has partnered with Ahmad Tea.
The forward believes success is built long before players step onto the pitch.
"One of their important messages is; that preparation is everything," he explained.
"They are talking about making their tea and in that is a message that I live by in my career: You have to be ready.
"That is not just on the day of a game in terms of eating the right foods, having your kit ready but also in how you prepare in the week.
"Training properly, recovering thoroughly, eating right, studying your opponents, reflecting - letting time for things to breathe, brewing the plan of action.
"I think that is where we really align.
"Ahmad tea is about bringing a quality product to customers by ensuring everything is of the highest standard, consistently, and that is what I believe in."
Representing Ghana remains a source of enormous pride for Semenyo and his family, who will be among those cheering him on when the Black Stars take to the field.
The 26-year-old revealed how international football has become a special occasion for his relatives, with national team matches bringing everyone together.
"My whole family support Ghana and I hope to do them proud," he said.
"They’re crazy when watching the games – it’s loud at home and a time for the family to come together.
"You couldn’t believe the atmosphere when we score - nothing beats it and so many great memories.
"Having some family at the Panama game will be a very special moment."
As one of Ghana's leading attacking players, Semenyo understands the scrutiny that comes with representing the Black Stars.
Former captain Asamoah Gyan recently suggested there would be significant pressure on the forward to deliver at the tournament, but Semenyo insists those expectations are shared across the entire squad.
"Pressure is on all of us as a team every time we pull on the Black Stars jersey we are representing our nation," he said.
"We all know the pressure that comes with playing for Ghana.
"We all know what it means to put on that Black Stars shirt! The fans are so passionate, you know?
"If you give the ball away a few times in a game and we don't get the win, people are going to have something to say.
"That's just how it is and we accept that. They expect success, and we know that. But for me, that pressure is a privilege.
"It’s what inspires us all to keep improving. I just see it as something to motivate me, really.
"Every time I go out there, I just want to do my best and make the country proud."
A victory over Panama would provide Ghana with the ideal start to their World Cup campaign and, if Semenyo's determination is any indication, the Black Stars are intent on ensuring they are remembered for their performances rather than becoming one of the tournament's early surprises.
Antoine Semenyo is the new Global Brand Ambassador for Ahmad Tea, one of the world's leading family-owned tea companies. For more information about Ahmad Tea and its commitment to quality, craftsmanship and sustainability, visit www.ahmadtea.com.