The Homeless World Cup is an international football tournament that is held annually and aimed at raising awareness for homelessness. This four-a-side format tournament strips football back to its essence, removing the fame, money and power that are frequently associated with the sport. To promote the new film The Beautiful Game, Oscar-nominated actor Bill Nighy has turned up to the real-life trials for the upcoming event in South Korea. The movie is centered around the Homeless World Cup, with Nighy playing the role of a football coach who takes an England squad to the tournament.
One of the best things about being part of the film for Nighy was his encounter with the non-professional actors who had previously taken part in the Homeless World Cup tournaments but are now no longer homeless. According to the actor, it is a sweet bit of symmetry. Although the film showcases the potential for sport to bring about change, Nighy is not sure whether football genuinely possesses such power. However, the sport bridges countries and brings everyone closer, and to some degree, it can alleviate prejudice.
England’s real coach for the Homeless World Cup is Frankie Juma, who started playing football in the UK when he joined a refugee team. At Juma’s training sessions, it is not just about football, but also their struggles with access to education, housing and other services. Juma is currently selecting a team of eight men to represent England at the forthcoming Homeless World Cup in September. 35-year-old Courtney is one player who has caught his eye, and according to him, football has helped him avoid homelessness. Courtney says it would be a dream to represent England at the Homeless World Cup.
Micheal Ward, who is also a member of The Beautiful Game cast, relates to Courtney’s experiences of homelessness. The Top Boy actor himself experienced homelessness growing up, and he found a new perspective on homelessness after spending time with the extras in the film – former participants in the Homeless World Cup. Ward now tries always to be more aware of the plight of the homeless in his everyday life.
The Homeless World Cup’s founder, Mel Young, describes the power of sport as being a common language that people can understand and can be used to create a community. For many, participating in The Homeless World Cup is a life-changing experience that helps break down barriers and stereotypes, offering opportunities to contribute and engage with their communities
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