Swedish winger Ken Sema has revealed that he could have been lining up for DR Congo at the 2026 World Cup rather than Sweden, after the African nation made a late approach to recruit him for their tournament campaign.
Speaking from the Swedish camp in Dallas, the 32-year-old Watford winger explained that DR Congo made contact with his family, but his loyalty to Sweden ultimately prevailed. “They contacted my father, but Sweden came first,” Sema told Fotbollskanalen.
A Family Connection
Sema, whose parents are from DR Congo, follows the Central African nation’s progress closely. “I keep an eye on them. It will be big with the World Cup. It is the first time in a long time that they are in it,” he said. DR Congo qualified for the 2026 tournament after a strong African qualifying campaign, making their return to world football’s biggest stage for the first time in decades.
The approach from DR Congo came as no surprise to those who follow international football’s complex web of dual-nationality players. Sema’s Swedish upbringing and professional development in Sweden’s football system made his choice clear, but the family ties to DR Congo added an emotional dimension to the decision.
A Unique Tournament Backdrop
DR Congo’s World Cup preparations have been anything but conventional. Following an Ebola outbreak in the country, the team has faced strict quarantine requirements from US authorities. Players and staff have been required to isolate for 21 days upon arrival, a measure that has disrupted their training schedule and complicated their tournament buildup.
Spanish authorities also blocked their scheduled warm-up match against Chile, adding to the logistical challenges facing the Congolese camp. The latest reports suggest the match has been cancelled entirely, leaving the team without crucial preparation time.
Sema’s Role in Sweden’s Plans
Sema is one of the more experienced members of Sweden’s World Cup squad, bringing valuable international experience to a group that blends youth with established talent. His versatility across attacking positions makes him a valuable asset for manager Jon Dahl Tomasson, who values Sema’s work rate and tactical awareness.
The winger has been a consistent performer for Watford in the Championship, and his call-up to the Swedish World Cup squad was widely expected. His decision to commit to Sweden years ago has now been rewarded with a place on football’s biggest stage.
Friendship with Ghoddos
Sema also spoke about his close friendship with fellow Swedish international Saman Ghoddos, with the pair having played together at previous clubs. “Me and Ghoddos have talked a lot,” Sema revealed. The bond between the two experienced players is seen as important for team morale as Sweden enters a tournament that could define the careers of many in the squad.
As Sweden prepares for their opening match, Sema’s story serves as a reminder of the complex personal journeys that lead players to the World Cup — and the decisions, both on and off the pitch, that shape international careers.
