England and Scotland are about to take part in the FIFA men’s World Cup (sadly Wales didn’t make it this time). Scotland have not been at the tournament for 28 years, while regulars England will harbour genuine hopes of winning their second title.
The tournament, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, arrives with plenty of baggage. FIFA peace prize winner Donald Trump’s shadow hangs over the football extravaganza, as does the war in the Middle East.
But away from the glitz and glamour and the global uncertainty, there are other less-heralded football stories going on, which we shine a light on this week.
From the goals being scored off the pitch in host cities and the other World Cups tackling homelessness to how fans can unite to take on corporate greed, they all reaffirm what a beautiful game and force for good football really is.
What else is in this week’s Big Issue?
A special Scotland souvenir cover
Scotland’s World Cup return has been almost three decades in the making. A special moment deserves a special cover. Grab your souvenir cover celebrating Scott McTominay’s iconic overhead kick that powered the Tartan Army to the tournament.
Terry Butcher’s Letter To My Younger Self
The former Three Lions captain was fearless on the pitch, playing in three World Cups and starred for club teams both in Scotland and England. Now he’s harnessing his grief over the loss of his son, who served in the armed forces, to bring hope to others.
