Pakistan’s Street Child Football Team has entered the final phase of preparations for the upcoming Street Child Football World Cup 2026, set to be held in Mexico City from May 5 to 15.
Managed by Muslim Hands, the team is gearing up to compete against more than 30 international sides in a global tournament that transcends sport, aiming to promote the rights, protection, and identity of street-connected children. Riding high on their historic silver-medal finish in the 2022 edition held in Doha, along with several podium performances in international youth competitions, the Pakistan team enters the 2026 event as one of the strong contenders.
The Street Child World Cup is scheduled just weeks ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, providing a significant platform for young athletes from marginalized backgrounds to showcase their talent and share their stories on a global stage. Apart from on-field action, the Pakistani contingent will also participate in a youth-led General Assembly linked with the United Nations, where players will advocate for key issues including legal identity through birth registration, protection from violence, and access to education.
The 2026 edition is expected to be the most inclusive in the tournament’s history, with expanded participation for both boys’ and girls’ teams. The Pakistan squad, popularly known as the “Green Shirts,” has emerged as a symbol of resilience and hope, highlighting that talent can thrive irrespective of social or economic barriers. Currently undergoing intensive training camps, the team is focusing on adapting to the high-altitude conditions of Mexico City to ensure peak performance during the tournament. “Our children are not just players; they are ambassadors of Pakistan’s resilience,” a spokesperson for Muslim Hands said. “In Mexico, they will stand up and declare to the world: ‘I AM SOMEBODY.'”
With over 300 young participants from across 30 countries expected to feature, the Street Child Football World Cup 2026 promises to be a powerful blend of sport and social advocacy, with Pakistan aiming to once again make its mark on the international stage.