Afghan star helps kids score World Cup goal

The event is also a child rights conference, said Street Child United, which works with Casa Alianza, a nonprofit in Mexico that provides a home to more than 100 children, many victims of violence, sexual abuse and trafficking.

For Mariana Nicol, who is still adjusting to her new life at Casa Alianza, soccer has always been a passion but she never imagined she might get a chance to train and play for Mexico.

"I can't believe it, I feel like it's a dream," said the pony-tailed 14-year-old, who is trying to finish primary school.

"It's exciting to be training with many kids that I know, and to then grab the ball and run with it or hand it back."

For the Mexican team from Casa Alianza - some of whom have suffered addiction, abuse and homelessness - flying to Russia will not only expand their horizons but help them see beyond the neglect that has so far dictated their lives, said its head.

"Above all, I think the most important is to know that they can achieve whatever goals they set," said Sofia Almazan Argumedo, Casa Alianza's Mexico director.

Popal recounted how Afghanistan's first women's national team worked to encourage more women and girls to play soccer, despite attacks and pressure from people opposed to them playing a "man's game".

"Football is my experience," said Popal, who also helped train the England Street Child World Cup team.

"It's all about team building, staying together, having networks, having friendship, happiness and feeling freedom. It empowers every woman around the world who plays this game."

Reuters