Taha Ali's journey from security guard to Sweden's World Cup darling

Taha Ali goes from security guard to World Cup star

Sweden's most talked-about player heading into the World Cup isn't Viktor Gyokeres – it's Taha Ali. The winger, who was working as a security guard not long ago, has become a fan favorite after his performance against Greece and is now poised to break out on the biggest stage. "I'm shocked," Ali himself admits about the whirlwind rise. From patrolling buildings to lighting up Blågult's attack, it's the story of the tournament before a ball has even been kicked in Dallas. (1) (2)

Ken Sema becomes team DJ on flight to USA

The mood in the Sweden camp is loose ahead of the World Cup, and Ken Sema is getting credit for it. The winger has been praised for his musical performance on the team flight to the United States, spreading good vibes across the squad. "Has it reached you already?" a surprised Sema said in the mixed zone when asked about his new role as the team's unofficial DJ. (3)