The charity football event “Match for Hope” united celebrities, influencers, and former professional players at the iconic FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 venue, Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, on Friday.
The spirited match between Team Chunkz and Team AboFlah thrilled both players and spectators with its vibrant atmosphere and friendly competition.
Team Chunkz claimed victory over Team AboFlah with a score of 7-5, infusing joy and camaraderie throughout the event. The match exceeded expectations by generating QR32,301,625 ($8,849,760) in funds, surpassing its initial target of over $1m.
The proceeds will support Education Above All (EAA) projects in Mali, Rwanda, Tanzania, Pakistan, Palestine, and Sudan, aiming to provide quality education for marginalized people in the developing world.
Chunkz emphasized the broader significance of the event, stating, “It’s much bigger than a football match.” Meanwhile, AboFlah echoed sentiments of sportsmanship and charity, saying, “The loss was tough, but the most important thing is the charity goal.”
Reflecting on the match, Team Chunkz Manager Arsene Wenger commended the blend of talent on display, noting the surprising prowess of non-professional players and the vibrant atmosphere created by the youthful crowd.
The star-studded lineup featured prominent personalities such as Roberto Carlos, Ricardo Kaka, and David Villa, alongside a host of influencers and creators, elevating the event’s global appeal.
The Match for Hope event built on the legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, bringing people together for a common goal of peace and education through football. The event was organised by Q Life, the cultural platform under the State of Qatar’s International Media Office (IMO), in collaboration with Education Above All (EAA), and Qatar Football Association (QFA).
The Education Above All Foundation is a global foundation established in 2012 by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. EAA aims to transform lives through education and create the right conditions to achieve Sustainable Development Goals for disadvantaged children and communities.
Image credits: Rajan Vadakkemuriyil/The Peninsula