In a thrilling and dramatic Soccer Aid match at Old Trafford on June 15, 2025, Carlos Tevez turned back the clock with a stunning four-goal performance, spearheading the World XI's remarkable comeback to beat England 5-4. Despite the World XI trailing 3-0 early in the second half, Tevez’s quickfire goals leveled the match, setting the stage for a late winner from rapper and television presenter Big Zuu.
The match started with England looking dominant, racing to a 3-0 lead thanks to goals from Wayne Rooney, Toni Duggan, and Jermain Defoe. Rooney opened the scoring with the earliest goal in Soccer Aid history, firing home after a deft touch from actor James Nelson-Joyce. Duggan doubled the lead just before halftime, coolly finishing beyond former Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar, who was struggling under the high ball. Early in the game, the World XI also suffered the loss of former boxing world champion Tony Bellew to injury, adding to their challenges.
England's momentum continued after the break as Defoe scored twice, extending the lead to 3-0. At this point, the World XI brought on the 41-year-old Tevez as a second-half substitute, a move that would change the course of the match entirely. Tevez, who played for Manchester United between 2007 and 2009 before controversially transferring to rivals Manchester City, was met with boos from the Old Trafford crowd, particularly from United supporters still bitter about his departure sixteen years ago.
Unfazed by the hostile reception, Tevez responded by cupping his ear and later holding up the back of his shirt to the crowd, signaling his ongoing rivalry with Manchester United fans. His performance on the pitch was nothing short of sensational. Within 15 minutes, Tevez scored four goals, including a placed free-kick from 20 yards that showcased his clinical finishing. His first goal came after a lovely flick from player-coach Robbie Keane, and his second followed just 97 seconds later, leaving defenders Phil Jagielka and others on the ground. He completed his hat-trick with a precise free-kick that made it 4-3, and four minutes later, he leveled the score at 4-4 with a composed finish cutting in from the left.
Tevez’s goals sparked a remarkable revival for the World XI, who scored five of the seven second-half goals. His Premier League pedigree was evident throughout, reminding fans of his 84 goals in 201 top-flight appearances. Despite the boos, many Manchester City fans expressed their admiration for Tevez’s performance, praising him for rattling United fans and noting he looked fitter than during his playing days.
While Tevez dominated the scoring, the match also featured standout moments from other players. YouTuber Angryginge earned player-of-the-match honors for his defensive heroics, including a crucial clearance off the line from Brazilian legend Rivaldo. The World XI’s celebrity goalkeeper Nicky Byrne made several important saves but was fortunate to only receive a yellow card for handling outside the penalty area to deny a clear goal-scoring chance.
The climax came with five minutes remaining when Big Zuu, the musician and TV presenter, scored the decisive goal. After receiving a pass from YouTuber Tobi Brown, Big Zuu curled a low left-footed shot into the near post, beating England goalkeeper Paddy McGuinness, who made an uncharacteristic mess of the save attempt. The goal sparked jubilant celebrations from the World XI and their fans, who chanted 'Zuu' as he mimicked Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic 'Siu' celebration. His goal received a warmer reception than any of Tevez’s strikes, highlighting the divided loyalties in the crowd.
The match ended 5-4 in favor of the World XI, marking their record-extending eighth Soccer Aid victory. The event raised over £15 million for UNICEF, continuing its mission to protect play for every child worldwide. The game was managed by a star-studded coaching lineup including Tyson Fury, Harry Redknapp, David James, Robbie Williams, Vicky McClure, and the injured Sam Thompson.
Off the pitch, the event was not without controversy. ITV had to issue an apology after Tyson Fury, during a team talk in the dressing room, used industrial language, shouting, "We are England! We are f****** Spartans!" The outburst caught manager Harry Redknapp off guard and left players in fits of laughter. The candid moment added a layer of authenticity and humor to the charity event.
Tevez’s fiery encounter with the Old Trafford faithful continued late into the match. He was booked for cynically hauling down Aaron Lennon when the latter was through on goal. Unusually, the referee allowed Lennon to show Tevez the yellow card himself, a rare and symbolic gesture. Despite the booking and boos, Tevez’s presence was undeniably the catalyst for the World XI’s comeback.
The atmosphere at Old Trafford was charged, especially when Liverpool’s anthem 'You’ll Never Walk Alone' was played over the tannoy as Liverpudlian former hockey star Sam Quek came on as a substitute. This further irked Manchester United fans, who were already upset by Tevez’s participation and goal celebrations. Social media buzzed with fans expressing disbelief and frustration over the anthem’s choice and Tevez’s role in the match.
In the end, Soccer Aid 2025 delivered everything fans hoped for: drama, high-quality football, and a generous contribution to a worthy cause. Carlos Tevez’s four-goal masterclass was the headline act, proving that even at 41, he can still roll back the years and make a difference on the pitch. Meanwhile, Big Zuu’s winning goal ensured the World XI’s victory and added a memorable finish to a night of charity, sport, and entertainment.
As the dust settles on this unforgettable match, the legacy of Soccer Aid continues to grow, uniting celebrities, former professionals, and fans alike in support of UNICEF’s vital work. And while the rivalry between Tevez and the Old Trafford crowd remains as intense as ever, the spirit of the game and the cause it serves shine through.
