Cod Almighty | Diary

Pitchside at the World Cup in Cardiff

6 August 2019

We kicked off the 2019-20 division four title charge with a win. Didn't that feel good? Talking of the feelgood factor, last week Basque Diary volunteered at the Homeless World Cup 2019 in Cardiff.

What a fantastic advert for both football and humanity that was. Over 40 nations from across the world descended on Bute Park in Cardiff to play a men's and women's four-a-side football tournament.

Each squad was composed of up to eight players who have experienced some kind of social exclusion or homelessness during their life.

As a team guide for Belgium men and women, as well as the Ivory Coast's men's team, I got to experience the action at pitch side. It was both interesting and heartwarming to watch. As you can imagine, for the players it gave them great pride to represent their country but was equally an emotional rollercoaster for them.

Many of the players at the tournament were travelling abroad for the very first time. The cultural mix of people from Chile, Peru, Mexico, the USA, Australia, Cambodia and all over Europe and Africa reminded you of how brilliant football can be.

Having spent a week with both Belgium and the Ivory Coast I got to know the players better as the week went on. The players grew in confidence on and off the field and they looked resplendent in their national team colours.

The Ivory Coast were spearheaded by a 17 year-old Richard and their captain Mohammed. Both were fine footballers and you wondered what better opportunities might have afforded them in life. Nevertheless, they played with smiles on their faces and were happy to speak to the numerous media outlets requesting interviews.

Belgium weren't quite as successful as the Ivorians on the pitch but their few victories were pure explosions of joy. A reminder that wherever you come from and whatever you do if you keep fighting, keep your eye on your goal and work your socks of anything is possible.

Up the mighty Mariners!