Homeless World Cup makes US debut in California and scores victories beyond the field for players

By SOPHIE AUSTIN
Associated Press/Report for America

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — A tournament for soccer players around the world who have experienced homelessness is making its U.S. debut in California. The Homeless World Cup started July 8 in Sacramento. It runs through Saturday. The tournament is in its 20th year. It’s being held after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic. The games are seen as especially important in California. The state is home to the largest homelessness population in the country. Thirty countries are competing. Teams include people who have lived on the streets to refugees. Players say participating in the tournaments has transformed their lives by building their self-esteem.