Premier League Stars Head to Burgas for "Match of Hope"

The Stiliyan Petrov Foundation is delighted to announce the latest three footballers who will be supporting the charity "Match of Hope" on June 6, 2026, at Lazur Stadium in Burgas. Joining the star-studded international squad are:

James Collins

One of the toughest and most committed Welsh defenders in modern Premier League history, James Collins epitomizes uncompromising play and loyalty to the fans. Born in Newport and a product of the Cardiff City academy, he quickly caught the attention of bigger clubs, deservedly being named Welsh Young Player of the Year in 2005.

However, his true fame is linked to West Ham, where, across two separate spells, he became an absolute fan favorite. With his fearless heading and physical prowess, he was a pillar in the Hammers' defense, as well as for Aston Villa, with whom he reached the League Cup final at Wembley in 2010. His career also included a stint at Ipswich Town, where he contributed his experience before retiring from professional football.

For the Welsh national team, Collins earned 51 caps, scoring three goals. He was part of his country's squad during the Dragons' historic performance at Euro 2016. His professionalism and unyielding spirit make him one of the most respected British defenders of his generation.

Stewart Downing

One of the most talented and consistent English wingers of his generation, Stewart Downing is synonymous with precise crossing and intelligent wide play. Born in Middlesbrough and a product of the local academy, he became an icon for his hometown club, winning the League Cup in 2004 and reaching the historic UEFA Cup final in 2006.

His impressive career saw him play for some of England's biggest traditional clubs. After a strong spell at Aston Villa, Downing donned the shirt of giants Liverpool in a £20 million transfer, helping the Merseyside club lift the League Cup in 2012. His journey continued with West Ham and an emotional return to Middlesbrough, where he once again became a leader and helped the team return to the top flight, before concluding his active career at Blackburn Rovers.

On the international stage, Downing earned 32 caps for the England national team, featuring for the Three Lions at two major tournaments – the 2006 World Cup and Euro 2012. With his professionalism and over 400 appearances at the highest level, he remains one of the most respected left-footed players in modern Premier League history.

Richard Dunne

One of the toughest and most uncompromising defenders in Premier League history, Richard Dunne is a true Manchester City legend and an icon of Irish football. A product of Everton's academy, he spent almost a decade with the Citizens, making over 300 appearances and setting a unique record – being named Player of the Season for four consecutive years (2005–2008). For many years, Dunne was a leader and captain for City.

His career also included spells at Aston Villa and concluded at Queens Park Rangers. Known for his robust play, Dunne also holds two of the most striking statistical records in English football. He is among the three players with the most red cards (8), sharing this achievement with Patrick Vieira and Duncan Ferguson, and holds the top spot for own goals (10). This only underscores his constant presence on the field.

For the Republic of Ireland national team, he earned 80 caps and scored 8 goals, being a key figure at the 2002 World Cup and Euro 2012. With his country, Richard Dunne became a European Youth Champion in 1997. Bulgarian fans remember him from the dramatic qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup, when the resilient Irish team faced Bulgaria twice, with both matches ending in a 1-1 draw. Today, Dunne works as a football analyst.

James Collins, Stewart Downing, and Richard Dunne join an impressive list of participants: Stiliyan Petrov, Dimitar Berbatov, Krasimir Balakov, Zlatko Yankov, Dimitar Dimitrov – Hero, Lyubomir Sheytanov, Nedelcho Matushev, Stoyko Sakaliev, Joe Hart, Dimitar Ivankov, Radostin Kishishev, Aleksandar Tunchev, Wes Brown, Yakubu Aiyegbeni, and Billy Wingrove.

The charity "Match of Hope" will bring together sports legends, public figures, and artists to unite efforts for:

• Supporting the "Comprehensive Oncology Center" – Burgas;

• Providing financial and moral assistance to Lyuboslav Penev and Petar Hubchev in their personal battles with illness;

• Direct support for patients fighting cancer.

Tickets: Now on sale through the Eventim network: OMV petrol stations, Technopolis stores, Orange, Office 1, the Burgas Opera Box Office, the "Chasovnika" ticket office, as well as online at eventim.bg.