Oslo will welcome the world for the 20th edition of the Homeless World Cup (HWC), a global football tournament built on the principles of inclusion, respect and transformation.
More than 500 players from 48 nations with lived experiences of homelessness, addiction and social exclusion will gather in Norway’s capital from August 23 to 30. Sixty three teams will take part across both men’s and women’s competitions and the event will highlight the resilience of participants while raising awareness of homelessness as a global issue.
The HWC has developed a style of play unlike any other tournament in global football. Matches are played at a fast pace, with seven minute halves, and are structured to ensure a decisive result — no draws. Each team fields four players, including three outfield players and a goalkeeper, competing on a compact pitch measuring 22 metres by 16 metres. Games are played across three artificial-grass courts, with the small-sided format creating unpredictable, high-energy action from start to finish.
There is plenty to play for, with five trophies in the men’s competition and three in the women’s. After two days of ranking matches, teams are split into groups based on their standings, with each group competing for its own trophy. The top men’s and women’s teams will vie for the prestigious HWC Trophy, while other tiers ensure every team remains in the hunt for silverware through to Finals Day.
The HWC has made a remarkable impact worldwide since its inception in 2003, helping 1.3 million people, with 200,000 supported annually through national partner programmes. More than 70 national partners deliver year-round support in their communities, creating pathways to housing, employment, education and reconnection with family.
“The Homeless World Cup doesn’t just change lives, it transforms entire futures,” said Hossam Khedr, Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Street Soccer Association.
“I’ve watched players arrive carrying the weight of homelessness, addiction and social exclusion, and leave as confident ambassadors for their country and advocates for their communities. When someone who has been told they don’t matter suddenly finds themselves representing Canada on the world stage, that’s not just sport, that’s human dignity restored.”
Canada will be represented by eight players who Khedr said aren’t just athletes; they’re living proof that with the right support and belief, anyone can rise from the streets to represent their nation with pride.
Emma "Zero" Bellante, who will be heading to Oslo, said she has struggled with mental health issues and addiction.
"This program has really helped me a lot in terms of getting out of the house and not isolating myself," she said.
Bellante said playing through CSSA is a “completely different game” from the soccer she found became a chore while playing as a child.
“There’s lots of clapping, encouragement, people cheering each other on,” she said. "It’s an opportunity I would never have passed up, despite the fact that I am very nervous, but it’s mixed with excitement."
The HWC provides a platform for personal transformation, with many players using the experience as a pathway to education, employment and reconnection with family. The tournament also serves as a stage for global advocacy by sparking vital conversations about homelessness and how communities can respond by showcasing the stories and resilience of its participants.
It’s about more than goals and trophies, but rather a global family, united through football, and committed to creating opportunities for those who need them most.
And one thing is certain as the 20th edition kicks off in Oslo: Every match, every player and every moment carries a story of resilience — and a reminder of the transformative power of the beautiful game.
Fans around the world can follow the action live and free, either in person at Rådhusplassen (City Hall Square) in Oslo, or online via FIFA+, the official HWC YouTube channel and Eurovision Sport.
For more information about the Homeless World Cup, visit www.homelessworldcup.org.