Sport stars Sam Quek and Paddy McGuinness are set to join forces once again as they prepare to participate in Soccer Aid for UNICEF. The highly-anticipated match is scheduled to take place on Sunday, June 9, at the renowned Stamford Bridge stadium, home to Chelsea Football Club. Alongside a star-studded lineup including Robbie Williams, Usain Bolt, and Bobby Brazier, Sam and Paddy will proudly represent the England team.
In recent years, the England team has faced defeat at the hands of the World XI side for five consecutive years. However, Sam and Paddy are determined to change the course of history and bring victory to their nation. Speaking about the upcoming event, Sam, 35, expressed her excitement, stating, “I have been an avid spectator of Soccer Aid since its inception, so I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of it this year. I am taking this opportunity very seriously!”
Not only is Sam eagerly anticipating the match, but she is also looking forward to reuniting with her former Question of Sport co-star, Paddy. The duo shared the screen from 2021 to 2023, entertaining audiences with their infectious chemistry and sports knowledge. Their reunion on the soccer field promises to be a memorable moment for both the players and their fans.
Soccer Aid for UNICEF is known for its charitable nature, with all proceeds going towards supporting UNICEF’s vital work in providing aid to children in need around the world. This exciting event brings together renowned celebrities, sports icons, and passionate individuals, all united by the shared goal of making a positive difference in the lives of children.
As the countdown to Soccer Aid begins, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing the exhilarating clash between England and the World XI team. With Sam Quek and Paddy McGuinness leading the charge, hopes are high for a triumphant victory for the England team. Stay tuned for more updates as the event draws near.
SAM QUEENSLAND, former captain of BBC’s Question of Sport, is set to showcase her football skills in the upcoming Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2024. The sports presenter, who is no stranger to the beautiful game, expressed her excitement about playing alongside her old friend, Paddy. “I played football with Paddy before, I did a 12-hour football match with him a few years ago so I know what he’s about, but I am looking forward to catching up with him. It’ll be nice to see a familiar face and we get on great,” she revealed.
Having a familiar face on the pitch might just be the advantage Sam needs. She believes that Paddy’s straightforwardness will push her to perform better. “I think it will help [that we know each other], he isn’t going to be shy in giving me grief if I’m not pulling my weight and I’ve got a lot of time for that, I need people to say, ‘Come on, Sam!’”
Sam, along with Paddy and rugby player Ugo Monye, joined the revamped Question of Sport as replacements for the show’s long-standing host Sue Barker and team captains Phil Tufnell and Matt Dawson. However, despite filming two series, the BBC made the decision to put the show on hold in December 2023, after 50 years on air.
Reflecting on her time as captain, Sam expressed her love for the role. “Being a Question Of Sport captain was my dream job and I loved every minute of it. Being a big sports fan and then to have the best athletes come onto the show and enjoy themselves was great, so I will miss all of it – all of the people and the crew.”
Now that her hockey season has come to an end, Sam is ready to dive into football training ahead of the big match. Growing up with football-mad brothers and even playing for Tranmere Girls at the age of 12, Sam has always had a passion for the sport. Although she had the opportunity to pursue a career in football, she decided to fully commit to hockey. However, the chance to play football again in Soccer Aid for UNICEF has reignited her love for the game. “I’ve been on the pitch and having people supporting you, there’s no feeling like it. So to get that opportunity again with Soccer Aid, I feel extremely lucky and nervous, but really excited.”
Don’t miss Sam Queensland’s return to the football field in Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2024, airing on ITV. Get your tickets now at socceraid.org.uk/tickets.
