England beats World XI 3-2 at Soccer Aid, raises £16m

England defeated the World XI 3-2 in the 20th anniversary Soccer Aid charity match at London Stadium on Sunday, May 31, 2026. The event, which raises funds for UNICEF, set a new fundraising record by generating over £16 million.

A crowd of approximately 60,000 attended the match, which was broadcast live on ITV and STV. England’s victory, secured with goals from former professional Jermain Defoe and actor Damson Idris, brings the all-time series tally to seven wins for England against eight for the World XI.

The annual event, founded by Robbie Williams and Jonathan Wilkes in 2006, has now raised more than £120 million for UNICEF UK. This year’s match featured a blend of former professional footballers and celebrities from television, music, and online platforms. England was managed by Williams alongside Harry Redknapp and David Seaman, while the World XI was coached by Olympic champion Usain Bolt and former footballer Clarence Seedorf.

Notable participants for England included former internationals Wayne Rooney, Jack Wilshere, and Jill Scott, alongside celebrities such as actor Tom Hiddleston and rugby player Joe Marler, who played as goalkeeper. The World XI squad featured...