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David Beckham plays football in PNG as part of UNICEF global project

Xinhua, November 5, 2015 Adjust font size:

Global football superstar David Beckham has taken to the pitch in Papua New Guinea, showing off his skills in front of a crowd on Thursday where some of whom have never heard of him.

Beckham landed in Papua New Guinea as part of a documentary for UNICEF's 7-fund, named after the English football star's jersey number, to mark 10-years he has been a Goodwill Ambassador raising awareness for child protection.

"It is his personal commitment to use his powerful global voice, influence and connections to raise vital funds and advocate for change for children across every region of the world," UNICEF said in a statement.

PNG Sports Minister Justin Tkatchenko told Australia's broadcaster on Thursday the country, which will host the 2016 Women's Under-20's FIFA World Cup, is proud to be Beckham's first port of call as he travels to seven countries around the globe.

"(It's a) really special and fantastic day," Tkatchenko told the ABC.

Tkatchenko said Beckham will be playing along side two local football teams from two different villages in Mount Hagen, the western province, before heading to a local hospital and then departing for his second stop in Nepal.

"A lot of them don't know who this guy is and how famous he is," Tkatchenko said.

"But those who have access to social media and that play soccer and have the love for the sport are just over the moon." Endit