The World Cup is down to the last 16, and football fever is still gripping the nation.

Scotland may be out, but there’s still another trophy to play for this summer, the SCIAF Shield.

As SCIAF, we’re present in the world’s most difficult places. We work with people in the hardest circumstances, so they can overcome their daily struggles and the structures of injustice that make and keep them poor.

Ben Wilson, SCIAF’s Director of Public Engagement, said, “Last year was our first ever SCIAF Shield, so we’re hoping to build on last year and make 2026 bigger and even better. As before, it’s a football tournament to raise money for the world’s poorest people, so get ready for a day of fun, football, and fundraising!”

The SCIAF Shield is a tournament for 5-a-side football teams promising an exciting afternoon of community and sport – all in support of SCIAF's life-changing work overseas.

With four groups of four teams, the tournament will kick off with a group stage, followed by a thrilling knockout round to crown the champions of the SCIAF Shield.

Last year a team made up of parishioners from The Sacred Heart in Salsburgh and St Aloysius in Chapelhall won and was led by parish priest Father Mark O’Donnell.

It will be held on Saturday, 1 August at Goals on Pollokshaws Road, Glasgow at noon. It’s £125 to enter a team, which includes entry, a minimum of one hour of football, lunch and a welcome pack for every player. There will also be music, a bouncy castle, face-painting and more!

Ben said: “Everyone is welcome, and it promises to be a great day, so why not join us in entering a team of up to eight players? All abilities are welcome!”

https://www.sciaf.org.uk/get-involved/events/799-the-sciaf-shield