World XI Triumphs in Thrilling Soccer Aid 2025 Match
Big Zuu’s late goal secured a 5-4 victory for the World XI over England in a captivating Soccer Aid match at a sold-out Old Trafford.
The 14th edition of this annual charity event, featuring a blend of celebrities and footballing legends, raised a remarkable £15 million for UNICEF. The World XI, inspired by a four-goal performance from Carlos Tevez, overcame a 3-0 deficit to claim victory.
England’s goals came from former internationals: a brace from Jermain Defoe, and one each from Wayne Rooney and Toni Duggan. The match showcased a diverse roster, including Louis Tomlinson, Angry Ginge, and Bella Ramsey, alongside former football stars.
While Tomlinson enjoyed popular support, Angry Ginge was named Player of the Match for a standout defensive performance, prompting humorous online calls for a Manchester United transfer.
Big Zuu, a rapper and TV personality, joined the World XI in the second half, fulfilling a pre-match prediction with a winning goal, celebrating with a signature ‘siuuu’ celebration.
Post-match, Zuu declared his confidence, stating, “I don’t care who it is, I’m scoring.”
Tevez’s impressive second-half display, featuring two goals within 97 seconds and a stunning free-kick, was a highlight. His move to Manchester City from Manchester United in 2009 added a layer of intrigue to his return to Old Trafford.
Wayne Rooney, player-coach for England, made Soccer Aid history with the fastest goal ever scored, only four minutes into the game. The match also featured managerial contributions from Tyson Fury, Harry Redknapp, and Vicky McClure, with Fury’s pre-game team talk causing a brief on-air apology.
Since its inception in 2006, Soccer Aid, founded by Robbie Williams and Jonathan Wilkes, has raised over £115 million for UNICEF. This year’s event saw Sam Thompson raise an additional £2 million through a 260-mile run and cycle carrying the previous year’s match ball.