Opening ceremony struggles for young footballers

A team of young footballers who are about to compete in what is claimed to be the world's largest youth tournament are appealing for help with costumes for its opening ceremony.

The Gothia Cup sees about 1,900 teams from 75 nations play nearly 5,000 games in Sweden.

The Vision Football Club side, made up of players from across the West Midlands, found out last week they would represent England, and now need outfits.

Mum Maria told BBC Radio WM they have struggled to source them, adding "they want white raincoats with a red St George's cross, with white umbrellas" to match.

The tournament was first held in 1975 and over the years more than one million players have taken part, with 153 nations represented.

For one hour, the opening ceremony, on 12 July, will see music, dancing, fireworks and a parade featuring every nation involved this year.

The event takes place at the Ullevi stadium in Gothenburg, Sweden, with more than 50,000 players, supports and locals filling the seats.

In 2025, the team came third in the Gothia Cup and they have players from across the West Midlands including Coventry, Redditch, Nuneaton, Telford and Shropshire.

Lewis explained: "The criteria is to wear costumes or colours that represent England. We asked people 'what do you think of, when you think of England', and someone said 'rain'.

"They all want to look the same, so we want to look good for the back of the stadium and the live stream around the world".

With a squad of 16 attending, and despite parents chipping in and various fundraising, Lewis said they are down to "£23 in the pot".

"We thought it would be a fantastic opportunity for a local business that would want to sponsor the girls and financially help, for every child to feel a part of it, and make a fantastic memory that will stay with them forever," she added.

Out of the 179 teams going from England, the Vision side will be carrying the flag.

Neve, from Solihull, who also plays for Aston Villa's under 13's team, said her biggest dream was to play for England in the World Cup but "right now we are focusing on this tournament in Sweden".

"It's a great opportunity, we just need to train hard, sort our fitness, and get the right rest and recovery so we can bring it home," she smiled.

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