The documentary runs 25 minutes and 00 seconds (25:00).

This film illustrates how sports can provide a pathway to safety and empowerment in high-risk communities.

While Mexico co-hosts the World Cup, one mother confronts gender violence and seeks to protect her daughter through football.

Nallely Arenas channels her legal background into grassroots work on the outskirts of Mexico City. As co-founder of Cancha Violeta, she creates a safe space for youth living amid gender violence and cartel activity.

Her daughter, Karol, trains with the team hoping to be selected to compete at the upcoming Street Child World Cup. Against the backdrop of the World Cup, Nallely is determined to protect her daughter and challenge the realities of gender violence that women face in her country.

Mexico: Football Without Fear is a documentary film by Elpida Nikou and Rodrigo Hernandez.

Published On 14 Jul 202614 Jul 2026

The Street Child World Cup offers a global stage for children from marginalized backgrounds. Nallely's efforts with Cancha Violeta reflect a growing movement to use football as a tool against gender violence and organized crime, challenges that persist in Mexico despite the World Cup spotlight.