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Soccer Aid 2025: Dermot Kennedy, Nicky Byrne, and Robbie Keane Lead Irish Involvement at Old Trafford
Celebrities and football legends from across the globe converged at Manchester United’s iconic Old Trafford for the 14th edition of Soccer Aid for UNICEF, the star-studded charity match renowned as the “world’s biggest celebrity football game.” As anticipation peaked on June 15, 2025, England and the Soccer Aid World XI FC squared off in a high-spirited contest, bringing together household names from music, sport, and television, all for a meaningful cause.
A Star-Studded Affair for a Worthy Cause
Since its inception in 2006 by pop legend Robbie Williams, Soccer Aid for UNICEF has been a beacon for combining entertainment with philanthropy. This year, the spectacle, broadcast live on ITV, ITVX, and STV, returned to Old Trafford, a venue steeped in history and footballing drama. The aim was clear: to harness football’s magnetism, raising funds to help children worldwide grow up safe, healthy, and free to play. The fixture continued its fundraising legacy, with the event having generated over £106 million since its debut, including a record-breaking £15 million last year alone. In the run-up to this weekend, over £1.5 million had already been secured through creative initiatives such as Sam Thompson’s 260-mile charity ball run from Stamford Bridge to Old Trafford.
Irish Stars in the Spotlight
Soccer Aid 2025 featured a notable Irish contingent, including acclaimed singer Dermot Kennedy and Westlife’s Nicky Byrne, joined on the World XI by Irish football legend Robbie Keane, who took on a coaching role alongside Peter Schmeichel. Also representing Ireland was former Manchester United defender John O’Shea, one of the legends fortifying a competitive World XI lineup.
Dermot Kennedy stood out both on and off the pitch, battling for the ball during play and captivating fans with his halftime performance—a moment widely shared on social media and garnering enthusiastic responses from fans and celebrities alike. Robbie Keane’s involvement as a player-coach reflects his enduring influence on the game and commitment to charitable efforts.
Team Sheets Packed with Football Royalty and Celebrities
The England squad blended legendary figures from the game with popular faces from the entertainment world. Highlights included former internationals Gary Neville, Paul Scholes, Edwin van der Sar, and Wayne Rooney—who also managed and played—plus Lionesses hero Jill Scott, who wore the captain’s armband. Among the celebrities were Olympian Sir Mo Farah, pop star Tom Grennan, TV personality Bear Grylls, and comedian Paddy McGuinness. Management roles were filled by a colourful group including Harry Redknapp, Vicky McClure, heavyweight boxer Tyson Fury, and Robbie Williams.
Facing them, the World XI fielded a formidable side featuring stars such as Nemanja Vidic, Leonardo Bonucci, Carlos Tevez, and David Trezeguet, alongside their celebrity teammates. The likes of Lee Mack, Tony Bellew, and Richard Gadd provided both sporting talent and entertainment value, further enhancing the event’s spectacle.
A glimpse of the lineup demonstrated just how diverse and inclusive the teams were, creating unique on-field chemistry and unforgettable moments throughout the contest. For detailed rosters and profiles, Soccer Aid’s official website provides a comprehensive overview of players and match coverage.
A Rivalry with History
Soccer Aid has grown into more than a one-off charity event; it’s forged a storied rivalry. England entered the 2025 edition trailing World XI in the head-to-head count, but last year’s emphatic 6-3 victory at Stamford Bridge had narrowed the gap. That landmark result ended World XI’s five-match winning streak, leaving the Three Lions eager to level the historical record at Old Trafford—a storyline that added extra excitement to this year’s pairing.
For fans looking to relive classic moments or review the full results of past matches, the Manchester United news hub archives Soccer Aid’s highlights and fundraising milestones.
Atmosphere and Impact
The 2025 event was buoyed by both the iconic atmosphere of Old Trafford and the enthusiasm of supporters from across the UK and beyond. Social media buzz intensified during the match, with Instagram and Twitter users sharing images of Dermot Kennedy’s halftime performance and the intense on-pitch action. The match ball’s journey—documented with interactive updates—perfectly captured the campaign’s spirit, showing that the combined efforts of fans, stars, and organisers can reach far beyond the stadium.
Looking Ahead
Soccer Aid 2025 once again demonstrated how football’s reach extends far beyond the pitch. The blend of celebrity participation, cherished sporting heroes, and a passionate cause ensures that each year Soccer Aid for UNICEF remains a calendar highlight. For more on future announcements, ticket information, and ways to get involved or donate, visit the official Soccer Aid homepage.
As Old Trafford bid farewell to another memorable night, the continued success of this charitable phenomenon stands as testament to the enduring power of sport and unity in helping millions of children worldwide.
Related links in context:
- See the official Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2025 page for further event details, squad announcements, and ways to contribute.
- Read Manchester United’s match preview for exclusive insights from players and the impact of Soccer Aid’s fundraising.
- Delve deeper into the match’s legacy, charitable milestones, and UNICEF’s work through their dedicated information page.
- Explore more about Dermot Kennedy and Westlife’s Nicky Byrne on their official Instagram and Westlife’s socials.
- For updates and real-time highlights, follow the Soccer Aid match coverage on ITV, which broadcasts the annual event live.
