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Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2025 promised fireworks with its star-studded lineup, and it did not disappoint. After a nine-goal thriller at Old Trafford, the World XI reclaimed the trophy, with more than £15 million raised to support UNICEF.
This year boasted one of Soccer Aid’s best squad lineups, with Jill Scott returning to captain England, and Manchester United men’s legend Nemanja Vidić skippering the opposition. Scott was reunited with former Lionesses teammates Steph Houghton and Toni Duggan, who both made their Soccer Aid debuts.
Duggan joined the now-growing list of female Soccer Aid goalscorers as she rifled home a superb finish. Making an immediate impact on her debut, the ex-Barcelona star rolled back her international years. Duggan’s goal follows Ellen White’s effort in 2024, which made her the first woman to ever score on the Soccer Aid stage.
Key takeaways from Soccer Aid 2025
Plenty of good football was on display at Old Trafford this year as ex-professionals and talented celebrities put on a show under the lights.
Wayne Rooney wrote his own piece of history by scoring the fastest goal in Soccer Aid history. The five-time Premier League champion needed just four minutes to put England ahead as they started their title defence off strong.
Duggan enjoyed a goal on her debut but also turned provider later in the game. Swinging in a pinpoint cross, the ball eventually made its way to Jermain Defoe, who bagged two goals for himself on the night. The striker’s brace makes him Soccer Aid’s all-time highest goalscorer.
More women than ever before took to the pitch to represent Soccer Aid this year. The match was also officiated by the all-female lineup of Rebecca Welch, Natalie Aspinall, Emily Carney and Jane Simms. Mary Earps also enjoyed her first Soccer Aid role as she was on pundit duties following her recent retirement from international football.
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Angry Ginge proved to be one of the favourites of the match after some superb defending left Old Trafford chanting his name. The YouTuber received the Player of the Match award for his efforts at the stadium of his beloved Man United.
Carlos Tevez rolled back the years as he almost single-handedly dragged the World XI back into the running. The Argentine put four goals away, including a free-kick, to claw back the deficit. Rapper Big Zuu rounded off the thrilling evening with a final goal to snatch the win for World XI, securing a stunning 5-4 victory.
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A total of £15,280,163 was raised to help UNICEF’s work supporting children around the world. Since its inaugural match in 2006, Soccer Aid has hosted 14 instalments of the iconic charity match. It has raised more than £121 million for UNICEF over that time.
