**Soccer Aid 2025: Date, Kick-off Time, How to Watch and Full Line-ups Revealed**
The much-anticipated Soccer Aid charity match is set to return to our screens this Sunday as sports fans and supporters of good causes gear up for another exciting evening at Manchester United’s iconic Old Trafford Stadium. Since its inception in 2006 by pop star Robbie Williams, Soccer Aid has evolved into an annual fixture in the calendar—marrying celebrity sparkle with athletic prowess, all in aid of UNICEF’s life-saving work for children globally.
Over the years, Soccer Aid has amassed a staggering £106 million for UNICEF, a testament to the power of sport and celebrity in drawing attention—and vital funds—to some of the world’s most pressing issues facing young people. The competition’s core objective is to “protect play for every child”, supporting interventions such as therapeutic foods, emergency health care, and safe spaces for children living through crisis.
The format will be familiar to regular viewers: a squad of English celebrities and ex-professionals goes head-to-head with a Rest of the World XI, with millions expected to tune in. This year, the England team will be looking to defend their victory from last year’s high-scoring 6-3 thriller—a match that saw Ellen White make headlines as the first woman to score in the competition. Meanwhile, the World XI are hungry for redemption after England snapped their winning streak.
Kick-off is scheduled for 7.30pm on Sunday, 15 June. The entire event will be broadcast free-to-air on ITV1, with fans also able to follow the action online through the ITVX streaming platform. Viewers can look forward to coverage fronted by Dermot O’Leary and former England Lioness Alex Scott, while comedic commentary will be provided by Jason Manford alongside seasoned sports broadcaster Sam Matterface.
This year’s squads will be guided by some famous faces in the dugout. England’s team sees a return for Wayne Rooney, who will be taking on a player-coach role at his old stomping ground. Legendary manager Harry Redknapp remains part of the coaching setup, alongside personalities including Tyson Fury, Vicky McClure, and David James. On the opposing bench, Danish legend Peter Schmeichel resumes his leadership role for the World XI, supported by Robbie Keane and actor Emmett J Scanlan.
As always, the draw of Soccer Aid lies in its unique mix of household names. England’s side this year features podcaster Steven Bartlett, comedian Alex Brooker, and singer Louis Tomlinson, alongside Olympic heroes Dame Denise Lewis and Sir Mo Farah. They’ll be lining up with ex-footballers such as Michael Carrick, Jermain Defoe, and Jack Wilshere.
The World XI’s line-up is equally star-studded, boasting comedian Maisie Adam, rugby legend Bryan Habana, Westlife singer Nicky Byrne, and TikTok personality Noah Beck. Making debuts this year are Leonardo Bonucci and Carlos Tevez among others, promising an enthralling spectacle for both sporting purists and celebrity watchers.
Despite a few withdrawals due to injury—including Sam Thompson and Bear Grylls—the squads remain packed with talent. Each year, the blend of competitive spirit and camaraderie, aided by expert coaching and a dash of showbiz, ensures this fixture is unforgettable.
Soccer Aid 2025 will not only provide Sunday evening entertainment but will also continue its tradition of raising funds to transform the lives of children worldwide. With the anticipation building, all eyes will be on Old Trafford to see who comes out on top in this one-off showdown for a cause.
With both sides fielding strong line-ups of sporting and entertainment stars, fans can expect skill, spectacle, and lots of surprises. One thing is certain—whether you’re there to watch your favourite celebrity on the pitch or to support UNICEF’s trailblazing work, Soccer Aid 2025 promises a night to remember.