Tickets are now available for the 2026 Match for Hope charity football game, set to take place in Doha, Qatar, on January 30th. Organized by Q Life, in partnership with the Education Above All Foundation (EAA) and the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, the event aims to raise funds for educational programs supporting children in need globally. This year’s match will feature a final showdown between Team Chunkz and Team Abo Falla.
The game will be held at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, a venue utilized during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Q Life, a cultural initiative of the State of Qatar’s International Media Office (IMO), is spearheading the organization, building on the success of previous iterations. Tickets can be purchased online at www.match4hope.com.
The Growing Impact of the Match for Hope Initiative
The Match for Hope has quickly become a significant fundraising event for the Education Above All Foundation. The EAA is a global organization dedicated to transforming lives through education, particularly for marginalized children. Previous matches in 2024 and 2025 collectively generated over 71 million Qatari Riyal, according to organizers.
Beneficiary Regions and Programs
Funds raised from the 2024 and 2025 events directly supported EAA projects in several countries. These included Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sudan, Pakistan, Mali, Tanzania, Zanzibar, and within Qatar itself. The EAA focuses on providing access to quality education, addressing barriers to learning, and fostering sustainable educational systems.
The EAA’s work extends beyond simply building schools. It encompasses teacher training, curriculum development, and providing essential learning materials. Additionally, the foundation prioritizes programs that address the specific needs of vulnerable populations, such as girls, children affected by conflict, and those with disabilities.
This year’s match will see the return of popular captains Chunkz and Abo Falla, both well-known figures in online entertainment. They will lead teams comprised of a mix of international football stars and prominent content creators. The combination aims to broaden the event’s appeal and maximize its reach to potential donors.
Qatar has increasingly utilized sporting events to promote charitable causes and its international image. The FIFA World Cup 2022, for example, incorporated various social responsibility initiatives. The Match for Hope aligns with this strategy, leveraging the popularity of football to address global educational challenges.
The selection of the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium as the venue is also noteworthy. The stadium, known for its striking design inspired by traditional Bedouin tents, represents Qatar’s commitment to both modern infrastructure and cultural preservation. It provides a large capacity and a visually impressive backdrop for the charity event.
While the specific fundraising target for the 2026 Match for Hope has not been publicly announced, organizers anticipate building on the momentum of previous years. The event’s success will likely depend on ticket sales, sponsorships, and media coverage. The involvement of high-profile athletes and influencers is expected to play a key role in attracting attention and donations.
Looking ahead, the organizers will focus on finalizing the player rosters and coordinating logistical arrangements for the event. The final impact of the 2026 match on EAA’s programs will be assessed following the event and reported in subsequent updates. The continued growth and sustainability of the Match for Hope as a fundraising platform remain to be seen, but its initial success suggests a promising future for this unique charitable initiative.
The EAA is also actively involved in advocating for increased global investment in education. They work with governments, international organizations, and civil society groups to promote policies that prioritize access to quality education for all children, particularly those affected by poverty and conflict. This advocacy work complements their on-the-ground programs and aims to create lasting systemic change.
