Pakistan street child football team gears up for 2026 World Cup in Mexico City

Pakistan’s street child football team has begun preparations for the Street Child Football World Cup (SCWC) 2026 in Mexico City, aiming to build on past success while championing the rights of vulnerable children on a global platform.

The team, managed by humanitarian organisation Muslim Hands, is set to compete in the international tournament scheduled for May 2026, just weeks ahead of the FIFA World Cup. The event will bring together around 30 teams from across the world, offering street-connected children an opportunity to showcase their talent and share their stories.

Having secured a silver medal in the 2022 edition held in Qatar, along with several podium finishes in other international youth competitions, Pakistan enters the upcoming tournament as one of the strong contenders. Officials say the team’s consistent performances have turned it into a symbol of determination and resilience.

Beyond football, the tournament serves as a broader platform for advocacy. Members of the Pakistani squad are expected to participate in a General Assembly at the United Nations, where they will highlight key issues faced by street-connected children. These include access to legal identity such as birth registration, protection from violence, and the right to education.

Organisers describe the SCWC as more than a sporting event, calling it a youth-led movement aimed at raising awareness and driving policy change for marginalised communities. The 2026 edition is expected to be the most inclusive yet, with expanded participation for both boys’ and girls’ teams.

In preparation for the tournament, the Pakistani squad is undergoing intensive training camps designed to improve performance and help players adapt to the high-altitude conditions of Mexico City.

A spokesperson for Muslim Hands said the players represent more than just athletic talent. “These children are ambassadors of Pakistan’s resilience,” the spokesperson said, adding that the team hopes to inspire others by demonstrating that potential is not defined by social or economic background.

Over the years, the “Green Shirts” have come to embody hope for many in Pakistan, showing how sport can serve as a pathway to empowerment and change. As the countdown to the tournament begins, the team is focused not only on achieving success on the field but also on making its voice heard on issues affecting millions of children worldwide.