The Story of the SCWC '26
The Story of Day 2
As the teams begin to settle into life here in Mexico City, Day 2 saw the tournament properly come to life, with a packed schedule of Congress sessions, arts activities, football training and performances.
Congress sessions begin
Today marked the first day of Congress, giving young people the chance to come together in a safe space to share their experiences, agree on the changes they want to see, and begin drafting demands rooted in their rights – all guided by our brilliant volunteer facilitators.
These conversations are at the heart of the event. They’re what turn this week from a football tournament into something that can drive real commitment and lasting change.
Flags of identity
Our first arts session kicked off with loads of energy as the Kenya volunteers led the group in a lively warm up, with chants of “1, 2, 3 – I am somebody!” ringing around the square.
Each team was asked to recreate their national flag, celebrating not just where they come from, but the experiences and identities of street-connected children in their country. Before long, the square was awash with colour, with pyramids, trees, flowers and personal symbols added to the designs – each completely one-of-a-kind.
What was especially lovely was to see was the togetherness throughout the session. Groups huddled together, sharing ideas and working collaboratively on designs. With young people telling their own stories through art and creativity.
Football training gets underway
In the afternoon, excitement began to build as the young people prepared to kick a ball around for the first time. In the shadow of the stadium, training sessions broke out on the main field, with teams proudly showing off their SCWC kits and, more importantly, footballing abilities.
From the sidelines, the rondos, passing relays, long-range shots and fitness drills all seemed to blend into one. But more than anything, it was wonderful to see the young people finally have the chance to run, play and blow off some steam.
The heat is clearly going to have an impact on the football this week. Just sitting and watching was tough, and many of the volunteers were left wondering how the players were managing to keep going with such energy.
The First Late Show
The evening showed that the Street Child World Cup is about so much more than football – it’s a celebration of culture, identity and community from all over the world, and nowhere was that clearer than at the first Late Show, where each team took to
the stage to share a little piece of home.
The evening began with dance circles and a snaking conga line to Shakira’s Waka Waka (This Time for Africa), setting the tone for a night full of energy and joy.
The Mexican boys kicked off the performances with a dramatic take on Lucha Libre, while the Kenyan girls delivered a moving piece about how football sport can offer hope amid poverty. From traditional Malaysian dance and intricate Indian choreography to Brazilian funk, a Justin Bieber-inspired performance from the Canadian girls, and the Bolivian girls twirling across the stage in flowing white dresses, every performance brought something unique.
But of course, the party did not stop there. The dancing continued into the night, and I’m pleased to say that I was able to show off my own unique moves. It was the perfect end to another brilliant day.
