32-year-old Swedish footballer Ken Sema is about to embark on his first FIFA World Cup journey.

In a recent interview with SVT Sport, he revealed that being selected for the national squad not only made him reflect on his own journey but also reminded him of the great sacrifices his parents made for the family.

He said: "They came from Congo to Sweden, and now when I see my son representing the country where I was born at the FIFA World Cup, it's a very special feeling."

From Exclusion to Return: Finally Making His World Cup Debut

Sema was not included in Sweden's squad for the FIFA World Cup qualifying matches in March. However, when head coach Graham Potter announced the final roster for FIFA World Cup 2026, Sema was back in the national team.

This means the 32-year-old will make his World Cup debut.

He said: "This is the highest level you can participate in, really. No matter who you ask, no matter how good a player is, the FIFA World Cup is the pinnacle of all pinnacles, the top of the pyramid. There's no bigger stage than this."

Family Support: Parents Will Attend in Person

Sema recently welcomed his third child, so his wife and children will stay home for now, at least not attending the FIFA World Cup in the early stages.

However, he will still have family support on the pitch.

He said: "My mother and father will definitely come, and my siblings too."

When asked who he would most want to dedicate this honor to if Sweden succeeds, his answer was unwavering: "My parents. That would mean so much to me."

"You might not be able to understand what this means"

Sema was visibly emotional when speaking about the significance of the FIFA World Cup in his life.

He emphasized that it's not just a sporting event but the culmination of family and immigrant experience intertwined. "I think it might be hard for you to really understand how important this is to me."

From immigrating from Congo to Sweden to now standing on the FIFA World Cup stage, this journey holds profound meaning for him.

He also shared some details about the team's preparations for this World Cup. On the flight to the United States, after an internal match, some losing players were asked to perform a "talent show" in the cabin.

According to teammate Källström, the players in this "penalty performance" included Ken Sema, goalkeeper Johansson, and Zeneli.

After losing a small game on the plane, they were asked to perform impromptu acts.

Källström recalled with a smile: "They sang 'Händerna mot himlen,' and 'Let me love you' was sung by Ken. As for 'Bes,' I didn't really hear much from him, he mostly just stood there. Ken performed quite well."

This cabin performance quickly spread through the team, even leading to teasing and compliments from teammates.

In an interview, Sema appeared surprised in the mixed zone: "You've heard about that?" He then added with a smile: "I'm a man of many talents."

There's a consensus among the public and teammates that such lighthearted interactions have a positive effect on team morale, with some even calling him "a source of joy in the locker room."

"Football isn't just about ability; it's about being a complete person"

The 32-year-old Sema has long been regarded as an "atmosphere creator" in the Swedish national team, contributing not only on the pitch but also known for his positive attitude and sense of humor off the field.

There's even speculation that his selection owes something to his influence in the locker room.

Sema responded quite candidly: "Ultimately, football is about having a complete package. If people enjoy being around me and feel that I bring positive energy, then that's certainly a good thing."

He elaborated on his approach: "I think it's important to maintain a cheerful and positive attitude, because there's already too much negativity in the world. But I'm here first and foremost for my football ability, and I believe I can help the team on the pitch."