England CP squad set for IFCPFC World Cup

The England cerebral palsy squad kick-off their IFCPF Men’s World Cup 2026 campaign on Thursday, when they take on Japan in Atlanta in their opening game of the competition.

Head coach Jack Rutter named his squad in September, ahead of the competition in the USA, which will be a first major tournament in charge for the former Para Lions striker since his appointment earlier this year. 

Staged at the U.S. Soccer National Training Centre just outside Atlanta, Georgia between 14 and 25 October, 12 nations will be competing for the title over the next eleven days.

And the Para Lions will take on Japan, tournament debutants Indonesia and the Republic of Ireland in their group stage games at the competition before the final placing games take place beyond that.

England have travelled to the States with a 14-strong squad for the tournament, which includes a real blend of experience and young talent.

They play Japan first on Thursday 15 October (3.30pm BST) before taking on Indonesia the following day at the same time. Their final group game with Ireland is scheduled for Sunday 18 October (5.10pm BST).

All games will be streamed on the IFCPF YouTube channel here.

Speaking about the tournament, Rutter said: “We’re really excited to be heading to the USA for the World Cup. As a group, we’ve worked incredibly hard to reach this point and we’re determined to make the most of the opportunity.

"We have a strong blend of experience and youth, with some players competing at their fifth World Cup and others making their debut. I believe that balance will bring out the best in us as a team.

"Our ambition is clear: to achieve our best-ever performance at an IFCPF World Cup. We know the competition will bring challenges, but we’re ready to embrace them and give everything we have.”

The Squad

1. Giles Moore
2. Liam Irons
3. Jack Fox
4. Cailen Beckford
5. Harry Baker
6. Matt Crossen (c)
7. James Blackwell
8. Sam Dewhirst
9. David Porcher
10. Aaron Lucas
11. Ethan Day
13. Reegan McMillan
14. Matt Robinson
22. Freddie Lamb