A festival of football awaits in the heart of Glasgow. Day 1 of the 2016 Homeless World Cup in George Square, set to be the centre of an inspirational sporting universe for the next seven days.
64 teams, representing 52 countries, have come together to celebrate and highlight the year round life changing work of the Homeless World Cup National Partner network. 512 players have arrived in Glasgow each with their own story to tell, their own point on a journey to create a better life for themselves.
George Square has been converted into an outdoor street football venue for the event, with three purpose built pitches with seating. Up to 100,000 spectators are expected to attend the tournament. Entry is free every day, and tickets are not required.
This is the full schedule of 2016 Homeless World Cup matches.
Timings for the opening day are as follows:-
12.15pm ~ Teams will being their parade from Glasgow Caledonian University, along and down via Renfield Street, through past The Tron and then into George Square.
12.30pm ~ Opening ceremony will begin as the players arrive and take their seats in one section of the stands
12.40pm ~ The 64 captains will enter the main stadium and parade their 52 flags, one by one. Scotland will arrive last.
12.50pm ~ Homeless World Cup men’s and women’s trophies will be presented to the crowd following live music.
1pm ~ Kick-off! Scotland v Hong Kong (men) followed by Scotland v Norwary (women).
Admission at the Homeless World Cup is free for all spectators.