DOHA: Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Doha hosted the “Match for Hope 2026” charity football match on Friday, with Team Chunkz defeating Team AboFlah 8-7 in an event that brought together global football legends and leading content creators.
The annual initiative aims to raise funds to support underprivileged children and young people who lack access to education, offering opportunities for a better future across several countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa. The match drew 40,521 spectators and generated revenues of $12.4 million, all in support of projects run by the Education Above All Foundation.
Team Chunkz was coached by former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger and featured stars including Belgium’s Eden Hazard, Brazil’s Marcelo and Spain’s Diego Costa, alongside content creators Mohamed Adnan, Sharky, AngryGinge and Marlon.
Team AboFlah, led by Italian coach Roberto Di Matteo, included Thierry Henry, Franck Ribery, Gerard Pique and Tim Cahill, as well as global content creators such as MrBeast, KSI, Amr Nosouhi and Osama Marwah.
Speaking after the match, Wenger praised the atmosphere and fan turnout, saying spectators enjoyed both the game and the accompanying activities. He said the event showed the power of sport in promoting development and peace, while helping provide children with opportunities for a brighter future.
Former Real Madrid player Marcelo said he was proud to take part in the well-organised charity match, highlighting the strong presence of global football stars and the focus on supporting children’s education.
Thierry Henry also welcomed the large turnout, saying it reflected a shared commitment to supporting educational projects and improving learning opportunities for children worldwide.
