They fled war as child refugees, now they’re playing at World Cup 2026

Several players competing in this year's FIFA World Cup share a remarkable backstory: they fled war and displacement as children. Now, on one of sports' biggest stages, they represent their nations at the tournament. According to Al Jazeera, FIFA has branded this year's competition a 'World Cup for everyone'—and these athletes' journeys from refuge to the pitch embody that inclusive vision.

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