As part of the television company’s coverage, its city channels, STV Glasgow and STV Edinburgh will show live matches daily, direct from the city’s George Square. Viewers will also get the chance to watch the best of the tournament in two highlight programmes over on STV.

The Homeless World Cup will see Glasgow’s famous main square converted into a street football venue with three purpose-built pitches with seating, and from 10 to 16 July, 48 men’s and 16 women’s sides from 52 nations will play there in the world famous football tournament with a difference.

Founded in 2001, the Homeless World Cup is recognised worldwide as an event which inspires and empowers the participants to change their own lives. The Cup comes to Glasgow as part of a partnership with the Scottish Government via EventScotland and Glasgow Life.

Mel Young, co-founder of the Homeless World Cup, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for the Homeless World Cup and our partners at STV. We’ve developed a superb partnership which is working across TV, online, news, and promotions. The outcome is that viewers across Scotland will see the power of hope from our amazing tournament, not least featuring plenty of Team Scotland, as well as the best of the action on STV Glasgow, STV Edinburgh and STV, itself.”

Up to 100,000 spectators are expected to attend the tournament to cheer on the 512 players, while STV will make it possible for many thousands more to watch the action at home or on the go.

Deputy director of channels at STV, Elizabeth Partyka said: “STV is honoured to be teaming up with the Homeless World Cup. Broadcasting this inspiring and world-renowned event is the perfect opportunity for viewers to join us on STV Edinburgh and STV Glasgow and to experience the expert and versatile content that these channels provide.

“As well the as the live matches, Peter Martin and Alan Rough will present a nightly programme showing all the match highlights along with interviews and features about participants on and off the field.

“Fans across Scotland will be able to follow every aspect of the tournament live and on catch-up on the STV Player, and our STV News sports team will be reporting on the games on STV, on our website and via the STV News App.”

STV’s coverage of the Homeless World Cup is being brought to viewers in partnership with host broadcaster QTV Sports.

A full schedule of fixtures and programming will be announced in the coming weeks.

Councillor Archie Graham, depute leader of Glasgow City Council and chair of Glasgow Life said: “It’s marvellous that the Homeless World Cup is coming to Glasgow. We expect those taking part will be given the warmest of welcomes from the people of Glasgow for what will be a truly inspirational event.

“We’re delighted that STV will help to share those stories and broadcast what promises to be another outstanding event for this great city.”

Minister for public health and sport, Aileen Campbell, added: “It’s great news that the Homeless World Cup is coming to Glasgow, and it’s brilliant that people across the country who can’t make it to George Square will be able to watch the action on TV and cheer on Team Scotland.

“The event and the players who take part in it are inspirational and I’m glad that more people will now have the chance to see the positive role that sport can play in our lives.”