Homeless World Cup comes to California’s state capitol

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (CNN, KYMA/KECY) - A sun filled day of fun, food and flags all centered around football or soccer depends where you're from and this crowd represents over 40 counties.

"It's an absolute dream I can't believe it that's true," said Roberto Reyes, a participant.

"Lots of possibilities and opportunities," said Tim Trautmann, another participant.

Proudly playing in the Homeless World Cup, it's the first time it's ever been played in the U.S. Special for many reasons, but eye opening as every player in Sacramento has experienced homelessness in the last year alone.

Finally a home

"I came when I was 14 by myself, no family no anything," said Yuli Pineda, another participant.

Originally from Honduras, Pineda is on the team that took the first win of the tournament. Pineda's a player on the U.S. Women's Team, a dream of hers to play on a stage this size and in her entire life.

"My mom tells the story that when she buy me dolls I used to cut off the head and kick them around so I guess since ever," Pineda joked.

A foster youth with International Foster Care (IFC), Pineda says her family living in Sacramento is finally a home.

"I am proud of myself, my foster family is right there in the corner watching me, so yeah I'm really proud and I'm happy they came. I feel support," Pineda praised.

Affecting countries around the globe

"When they were playing the national anthem like I finally like, took it in like seeing everyone I was tearing up I was like 'I can't cry. Don't cry,'" said Sienna Jackson, another participant.

Holding back the tears is Sienna Jackson, another Women's USA player and yet another Sacramento local who lived in the city, in parks, and found herself couch surfing.

"You know there's so many stories of people losing houses, job, loss, loss income, so it's a good way to let people know don't look at homeless people in a negative way," Jackson spoke.

Changing perspective but also widening scope, that homelessness affects countries around the globe.

"We just want people to see, learn, a little bit about what the entire story of a homeless person can be, and also give these players something that will change their lives, and they will go back to their countries and they will make their countries," said Lisa Wrightsman, another participant.

Bound together by hope, competition, and the love of the game.