Tariq Lamptey reflects on ‘special’ World Cup experience

Ghana defender Tariq Lamptey has shared his reflections on representing the Black Stars at the 2022 World Cup, calling it a fulfillment of his career aspirations.

The 23-year-old, who switched his allegiance from England to the country of his parents, Ghana, was included in Otto Addo’s squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Before his decision, the London-born Ghanaian had progressed through the ranks of England’s junior national teams but had not broken into the senior Three Lions squad.

Lamptey made his debut for Ghana in a 3-0 defeat to Brazil in an international friendly and went on to feature against Switzerland in Ghana’s final pre-World Cup game. He made his first World Cup appearance against Portugal, coming off the bench to replace Alidu Seidu in the 66th minute.

Reflecting on his World Cup experience, Lamptey told 3Sports, “I think the World Cup is top of everybody’s list. As a young boy, you can only dream of playing in the World Cup, which was a very special and proud moment for me and my family.

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“After the sacrifice and the hard work that you put in, moments like that you have to cherish. It’s very important in your career; it makes you strive for the next one and just want to improve. You know that your level is there and you have to try and reach that.”

Tariq Lamptey shares how he felt when he made his home debut at the Baba Yara Stadium#3SportsGH pic.twitter.com/LqIEfXgDUs

— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) June 12, 2024

Lamptey earned a starting berth in Ghana’s next game against South Korea, which they won 3-2, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Despite suffering injuries, the Brighton and Hove Albion defender has made eight appearances for Ghana and is determined to assist the team in their quest to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.