Football is more than just a game—it’s a global language that transcends borders, cultures, and backgrounds. Every year, this truth comes to life when VYD’s refugee and asylum seeker football team from Brighton takes on London’s New Horizon Youth Centre’s FC Hope in a match that’s not just competitive, but deeply meaningful. This annual event is more than just two teams facing off on the pitch; it’s a powerful display of how sport can bring together people from across the globe, many of whom have been displaced, and offer a moment of unity, joy, and resilience.
At the heart of this event is a spirit of community and solidarity. VYD and FC Hope consist of players with incredible stories—individuals who have faced immense challenges, from fleeing war-torn countries to seeking asylum in foreign lands. For many of them, football is a shared passion that transcends language barriers and offers a sense of belonging in a new and unfamiliar place. The match is a reminder that no matter where people come from, the beautiful game can provide a common ground, building bridges between different cultures.
This event is made possible with the incredible support of the East Brighton Food Coop, a community-driven organisation that ensures everyone has access to nourishing food. Their involvement speaks to the importance of holistic support for marginalised communities—not just through sport but through the basic necessities of life that allow people to thrive. Their partnership has added another layer of positivity and collaboration to the day, as they provide much-needed resources and a welcoming atmosphere for both teams and supporters.
This year, the Brighton leg of the match was especially memorable. The game was full of energy, with both teams demonstrating skill, teamwork, and passion. Spectators were treated to a thrilling display of football, as the match swung back and forth, keeping everyone on the edge of their seats! In the end, the Away From Home team (VYD’s side) secured a scintillating 5-4 victory, showcasing not only their football talents but also the resilience and determination that define so many of their personal journeys.
Beyond the competition, this annual fixture is a celebration of everything that sport can represent: inclusivity, hope, and shared joy. The players, many of whom have experienced displacement, find in this event an opportunity to come together, build friendships, and create lasting memories. The positive energy on the pitch radiates into the wider community, where volunteers, organisers, and supporters come together to cheer, connect, and uplift one another.
For both teams, the annual match is a highlight, something that they look forward to each year. It’s a chance to break away from the struggles they face off the pitch and to immerse themselves in something unifying and positive. And for those watching, it’s a reminder of the incredible power sport has to bring people together, no matter their background or story.
As we look forward to the return leg in London, it’s clear that this event will continue to grow, not just as a football game, but as a symbol of unity, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds that sport can forge between people, no matter where they come from. The annual Away From Home vs. FC Hope match is a testament to the strength found in diversity and the joy that can arise from community-driven initiatives. Here’s to many more thrilling encounters and shared celebrations in the future!
Watch the film from the day below
