11 Movies Soccer Fans Must See

Goal! The Dream Begins

Released in 2005, “Goal! The Dream Begins” prevails as one of soccer’s most recognizable and identifiable films thanks to its remarkable underdog story and connectivity to the sport.

The film follows Santiago Muñez, a young Mexican immigrant living in Los Angeles who gets a chance to pursue his dream of playing in the English Premier League for Newcastle United.

Featuring appearances from real soccer stars such as David Beckham and Zinedine Zidane, the movie captures the determination and perseverance that is needed to make it to the highest level in soccer.

For soccer fans watching the 2026 FIFA World Cup, “Goal! The Dream Begins” serves as a reminder that every player once dreamed of playing on the biggest stage.

The Two Escobars (2010) 

There are a few soccer documentaries that capture the intersection of sports, politics and organized crime. One of them is “The Two Escobars”. 

Part of ESPN’S 30 for 30 series, “The Two Escobars” tells the parallel stories of Colombian soccer idol Andrés Escobar and kingpin Pablo Escobar and how they intertwine in the 1990s.

The film uses actual interviews and archival footage to document how soccer became linked to Colombia’s culture and how the influence of organized crime became a huge factor on soccer in Colombia. 

The Two Escobars remains a powerful example of how much pressure an athlete faces on the biggest stage in the world and how soccer can have an impact both on and off the pitch.

Maradona by Kusturica (2008)

Directed by acclaimed Serbian filmmaker Emir Kusturica, “Maradona by Kusturica” offers an intimate view of one of soccer’s most famous and controversial players of all time, Diego Maradona.

Released in 2008, the film combines both realistic interviews and Kusturica’s own perspective to explore how Maradona grew up in the streets of Buenos Aires to achieve superstardom. 

Even though the documentary highlights his memorable moments on the field, including his most famous “Hand of God” goal in the 1986 World Cup, it also examines his controversies that took place off the field.

For fans who want to understand more about the legends of soccer, “Maradona by Kusturica” bestows a deeply compelling portrait of a player whose career continues to leave opinions around the world.

Next Goal Wins (2023)

Based on the true story of the American Samoa soccer team, “Next Goal Wins” follows the team’s ability to rebound after suffering a 31-0 loss to Australia in the 2002 World Cup qualifying match, the largest margin of victory in the history of international football. 

Directed by Taika Waititi, the film combines comedy and heart as new coach Thomas Rongen is hired to transform one of the world’s most struggling teams into a team that is more competitive.

“Next Goal Wins” underdog story that focuses on resilience and celebration of culture makes it a viable choice for soccer fans looking for a feel-good story.

Gringos at the Gate (2012)

Released in 2012, “Gringos at the Gate” explores the complex rivalry between the United States and Mexico’s men’s national soccer teams. 

Directed by Roberto Donati, Pablo Miralles and Michael Whalen, the film showcases not only the matches themselves but the historical and political factors of the countries since the Mexican American War. 

“Gringos at the Gate” incorporates interviews with former players, coaches and journalists such as Cobi Jones and Hercules Gomez and discusses how the popularity of soccer in the U.S. posed a threat to Mexico’s dominance. The film also documents the experiences of Mexican Americans who feel attached to both national teams. 

Since both the United States and Mexico are host countries of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, “Gringos at the Gate” is a good option for soccer fans who want to learn more about the history of one of the world’s most heated rivalries.

Rudo y Cursi (2008)

“Rudo y Cursi” offers a unique perspective on the sport of soccer than others by blending comedy, family drama and culture. 

The film follows two poor Mexican half-brothers Beto and Tato, played by Gael García Bernal and Diego Luna, whose lives change for the better after they are discovered by a soccer scout and are given the opportunity to play professionally. 

Directed by acclaimed Mexican filmmaker Alejandro G. Iñárritu, “Rudo y Cursi” explores the vast pressures that come with playing the world’s most popular sport. Beto and Tatu’s relationship is tested through jealousy, arrogance and greed. 

The movie provides a powerful and entertaining look at how significant soccer is within Mexican culture, making it a compelling watch during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Pelé: Birth of a Legend (2016)

For soccer fans looking to learn more about one of the most legendary soccer players of all time, “Pelé: Birth of a Legend” is a must-see.

Released in 2016, the biographical film tells the story of Pelé, from growing up poor in the favelas of Brazil to leading his country to the 1958 World Cup title at 17 years old. The movie emphasizes the challenges and obstacles he faced in his path to global stardom while demonstrating the creativity, skill and passion that made him an icon. 

As fans celebrate the 2026 FIFA World Cup, “Pelé: Birth of a Legend” offers a captivating look at one of the players who helped transform soccer into the most popular sport in the world.

Metegol/Underdogs (2013)

For soccer fans who want a more lighthearted and family-friendly soccer film to watch during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, “Metegol/Underdog” delivers an entertaining blend of humor, adventure and the passion for the game. 

The animated film from Argentina follows Amadeo, a young boy whose foosball players magically come to life and help him save his hometown from a former rival who becomes an international soccer superstar. 

Directed by Academy Award winner Juan José Campanella, “Metegol/Underdog” celebrates the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and playing for more than just glory. Its unique combination of story, humor and strong soccer themes make it a fun for the family to watch during the World Cup. 

The Beautiful Game (2024)

Even though the FIFA World Cup displays the sport’s biggest stars on the world’s biggest stage, “The Beautiful Game” demonstrates the ability of soccer to change people’s lives away from the spotlight.

The Netflix original film stars Bill Nighy and Michael Ward and follows a group of homeless players who represent England in the Homeless World Cup, an international tournament that uses soccer to promote rehab and personal growth.

The movie tells an emotional and captivating story about teamwork, resilience and receiving a second chance while proving how soccer can unite people from diverse backgrounds.

“The Beautiful Game” serves as a reminder to soccer fans that the global impact of soccer is far beyond the victories. 

Shaolin Soccer (2001) 

While most soccer movies tend to focus on realism and soccer legends, “Shaolin Soccer” takes a completely different approach.

Directed by Stephen Chow, who also stars in the film, the movie tells the story of a former Shaolin monk who brings his brothers together to form a soccer team, using their martial arts skills to train for a national tournament.

Combining over-the-top action, special effects, and humor, the film turns this sport into a true spectacle. Despite its fantastical premise, “Shaolin Soccer” celebrates many of the qualities of soccer that make it so beloved around the world, such as teamwork, creativity, and determination.

For soccer fans looking for a fun and original movie to watch during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this cult classic could be a fascinating choice.

Bend It Like Beckham (2002)

Released in 2002, “Bend It Like Beckham” is a coming-of-age romantic-comedy that follows Jess Bhamra, a British teenager of Indian descent in London who dreams of playing professional soccer despite her family’s disapproval.

Named after the legendary English soccer star David Beckham, the film explores themes of identity, culture clash and gender while celebrating the worldwide appeal for the sport of soccer. 

“Bend It Like Beckham’s” combination of humor, heart and unforgettable soccer scenes help introduce the sport to new fans around the world, making it one of the most famous soccer movies of all time. 

For World Cup fans, “Bend It Like Beckham” serves as a reminder of the impact soccer has on and off the pitch, inspiring people of various backgrounds – especially women – to chase their dreams.