Ken Sema Eager to Reclaim Starting Spot After Hattrick Ahead of Crucial Sweden World Cup Qualifier

Ken Sema scored a hat trick in Sweden's final warm-up but lost his starting spot ahead of the vital World Cup qualifier versus experienced Switzerland.

    Key details

  • • Ken Sema scored three goals in Sweden's last training match but lost his starting spot for the upcoming qualifier.
  • • Sweden faces a crucial World Cup qualifier against an experienced Swiss team with an average age of 29.
  • • Sema plays for Pafos in Cyprus alongside former Brazilian star David Luiz and praised his leadership.
  • • Sweden's squad is youthful with promising talents but lacks the experience of their Swiss opponents.
  • • Sema expresses readiness to play and hopes to regain his position despite previous match setbacks.

Ken Sema, currently playing for Pafos in Cyprus alongside former Brazilian star David Luiz, made headlines by scoring a hat trick in Sweden's final training match against Algeria before the World Cup qualifiers. Despite this impressive display, he was dropped from the starting lineup for the key upcoming qualifier against Switzerland. Sema accepted coach Jon Dahl Tomasson's decision but remains determined to regain his place, emphasizing he did "everything I could" during the selection phase.

Sweden enters this critical third qualifier after two underwhelming draws and a loss, aiming to improve against a highly experienced Swiss team averaging 29 years old with 729 caps combined. The Swedish squad, featuring promising young talents like Anthony Elanga and Roony Bardghji, is noted for its youthful energy but faces challenges matching the seasoned Swiss side. Veteran players such as Victor Nilsson Lindelöf and Alexander Isak have returned to add depth.

Sema acknowledges the pressure and the importance of the match against Switzerland, recognizing that prior results might affect his chances. Nevertheless, he stands ready to contribute if called upon. His experience abroad and recent form, highlighted by the Algeria performance, position him as a valuable option for Sweden's campaign moving forward.

Stay on top of the news that matters

Our free newsletters deliver the most important news stories straight to your inbox.