Soccer Aid 2026 LIVE The Soccer Aid circus descends on east London this evening as England look to get their own back against the World XI and raise money for UNICEF. After falling to a frustrating 5-4 defeat at Old Trafford last year, the Three Lions will hope for brighter fortunes as they return to the nation’s capital. As ever, two star-studded sides have been named for the match, with plenty of former professionals and other celebrities suiting up for the match. Legendary manager Harry
Redknapp will return to his familiar spot in the England dugout, with Tom Hiddleston and Paddy McGuinness among the celebrities at his disposal. His opposite number will be the former Olympic champion Usain Bolt, who can call on the likes of comedian Maisie Adam and last year’s match winner Big Zuu. As ever, there are some legends of the game taking to the pitch, too, with Wayne Rooney, Jack Wilshere and Joleon Lescott all set to roll back the years, as Adolescence actor Owen Cooper
stands to become the event’s youngest-ever participant. Follow all the action from the London Stadium LIVE below with Standard Sport’s dedicated match blog!
Soccer Aid 2026, England vs World XI, UNICEF fundraising, Harry Redknapp, Usain Bolt, Wayne Rooney, Jack Wilshere, Joleon Lescott, Tom Hiddleston, Paddy McGuinness, Maisie Adam, Big Zuu, Owen Cooper
Wait Bolt’s playing?? That’s wild.
I don’t really get why they’re “chasing revenge” if it’s for charity lol. Last year was 5-4 at Old Trafford right? So now everyone just acts like it’s a whole grudge match.
So Owen Cooper from that Adolescence show is gonna be the youngest? Is that the same actor who played a soccer coach or am I mixing it up. Also, I’m pretty sure Harry Redknapp isn’t allowed within 500 yards of a pitch after the way he managed those teams…
UNICEF fundraising is nice but Soccer Aid is still kinda a celebrity zoo. Like I’m trying to remember who Big Zuu even is besides that random win last year. And if England “lost last year” then why is it in London Stadium again, doesn’t make sense to me. Either way I’ll watch for Rooney/Wilshere more than Bolt or whatever.