FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Players and fans from around the world are arriving in Fort Lauderdale as the World Sevens Football Tournament makes its North American debut on Friday.

“It centers women, centers female athletes, and it is empowering,” said former England international Anita Asante.

Two-time Olympic gold medalist and former member of the US Women’s National Team, Tobin Heath, said the advisory council of former stars has helped shape the new, fast-paced format.

“This was a unique perspective for us as footballers because we’ve always been the afterthought,” she said.

The seven-a-side game features no offside rule, a half-sized pitch and two 15-minute halves — with music playing throughout.

“I think you have more opportunities for touches on the ball, as individuals as well as a team, more special moments, hopefully more goals,” Asante said.

The event also includes a $5 million prize pool, which Heath called the most significant she’s seen in women’s soccer.

Eight global teams will compete in group play, leading to semifinals and Sunday’s final.

“t’s gonna be exciting, it’s fun, it’s fast. It’s joyous,” Asante said. “And it’s a festival kind of vibe and occasion as well, so get yourself out there, you don’t wanna miss out.”

Matches start at 5 p.m. Friday at Beyond Bancard Field. Tickets are still available.