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Greatest soccer movies you have to see

From inspiring underdog stories to historical moments on the pitch, these films capture the passion and global appeal of soccer. Get ready to explore some truly unforgettable movies about the world's most popular sport.

The Damned United
The Miracle of Bern
Escape to Victory

Filming soccer presents unique challenges compared to sports with more defined, contained action. Capturing the fluidity, pace, and sheer scale of a match that spans a vast field requires creative camera work and editing. Yet, despite the technical hurdles, filmmakers have produced compelling features that delve into the heart of the beautiful game.

Soccer movies often explore universal themes: the power of teamwork, overcoming adversity, the pursuit of dreams, and the intense pressure of competition. They can range from heartwarming comedies about ragtag teams to gritty dramas examining the sport's cultural impact, including its darker sides like hooliganism. Historical events, such as World Cup victories or club tragedies, provide fertile ground for powerful narratives.

What makes these films resonate globally is how they tap into the sport's universal language. Whether set in a small English town, a bustling South American city, or a remote Himalayan village, the core elements of passion, skill, and drama remain constant. They remind us why billions around the world are captivated by 22 players chasing a ball for 90 minutes. This list celebrates some of the most memorable cinematic attempts to bottle that magic.

13. The Class of ‘92 (2013)

For fans of Manchester United, this documentary is essential viewing. "The Class of ‘92" follows the journey of six exceptionally talented players – David Beckham, Nicky Butt, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Phil Neville, and Gary Neville – from their FA Youth Cup win in 1992 through their incredible success with the senior team over the next decade. It provides intimate access and insights into their rise, their bond as friends, and their impact on one of the most dominant eras in the club's history. It's a nostalgic look at a golden generation of English football talent.

The Class of ‘92

12. United (2011)

"United" is a poignant and powerful drama recounting the true story of the Munich air disaster in 1958, which tragically claimed the lives of eight Manchester United players, known as the 'Busby Babes'. The film focuses on the efforts of manager Matt Busby and his assistant Jimmy Murphy to rebuild the team and overcome the devastating loss, culminating in their appearance in the 1958 FA Cup Final. It's a moving tribute to the players lost and the resilience of the club in the face of unimaginable tragedy. A must-watch for fans of football history and stories of courage and recovery.

United

11. Once in a Lifetime: The Extraordinary Story of the New York Cosmos (2006)

Step back in time to the era when soccer tried to conquer America! "Once in a Lifetime: The Extraordinary Story of the New York Cosmos" is a captivating documentary about the rise and fall of the North American Soccer League (NASL) and its most glamorous team, the New York Cosmos. It chronicles how the team brought legendary players like Pelé, Franz Beckenbauer, and Giorgio Chinaglia to the US, creating a brief but dazzling period of 'soccer mania' in the late 70s. It's a fascinating look at ambition, star power, and the challenges of establishing football in a country dominated by other sports. Features great archival footage and interviews.

Once in a Lifetime: The Extraordinary Story of the New York Cosmos

10. The Cup (1999)

Here's a truly unique perspective on the global passion for football. "The Cup" (Phörpa) is a gentle, charming film set in a Buddhist monastery in the Himalayas during the 1998 FIFA World Cup. The young monks are obsessed with soccer and desperately want to watch the final match. The story follows their humorous and heartfelt efforts to acquire a satellite dish and television, navigating the rules and traditions of the monastery. It offers a serene yet amusing look at how the world's most popular sport transcends cultures and borders, even reaching remote spiritual communities.

The Cup

9. The Game of Their Lives (2005)

This film recounts one of the most stunning upsets in World Cup history: the United States national team's 1-0 victory over the heavily favored English team in the 1950 tournament in Brazil. "The Game of Their Lives" focuses on the diverse group of amateur players who made up the American squad, many of whom worked day jobs and played soccer purely for passion. It's a testament to the spirit of amateurism and the possibility of achieving the seemingly impossible on the world stage. While perhaps not as well-known as other sports dramas, it tells a fascinating, true story of a forgotten moment in US soccer history.

The Game of Their Lives

8. The Big Green (1995)

A classic underdog story perfect for the whole family! "The Big Green" follows a group of misfit kids in a small Texas town who are terrible at soccer. With the help of a quirky English exchange teacher and a former football star, they learn teamwork and determination to turn their fortunes around. It's a charming, feel-good Disney sports film from the 90s. It's got all the tropes you love: the ragtag team, the inspiring coach, and the journey from zero to hero on the field. Simple, sweet, and encouraging for young aspiring athletes.

The Big Green

7. Shaolin Soccer (2001)

Prepare for a football movie like no other! Stephen Chow's "Shaolin Soccer" is a wildly imaginative martial arts comedy that takes the sport to gravity-defying extremes. A former Shaolin monk reunites his estranged brothers to form a soccer team, using their incredible martial arts skills to dominate the game. Think wire-fu kicks sending balls through walls and goalies stopping shots with iron bodies. It's pure, unadulterated fun, blending spectacular visual effects with Chow's signature physical comedy and underdog spirit. If you're looking for something completely unique and hilarious in the realm of sports films, this is it.

Shaolin Soccer

6. Green Street Hooligans (2005)

"Green Street Hooligans" offers a gritty, unflinching look at the violent subculture surrounding English football firms. Elijah Wood stars as an American who gets drawn into the world of a West Ham United firm. It explores themes of loyalty, belonging, and the intense, often dangerous, camaraderie found within these groups. While controversial for its subject matter, the film provides a raw portrayal of the passion and aggression that can erupt off the pitch. It's a stark contrast to the game itself, focusing on the tribalism and identity tied to club support in a way rarely seen on screen.

Green Street Hooligans

5. Escape to Victory (1981)

Imagine a football match where the stakes are literally life and death! "Escape to Victory" brings together an unbelievable cast, including Michael Caine, Sylvester Stallone, and actual football legends like Pelé, Bobby Moore, and Ossie Ardiles. Set during WWII, it follows Allied POWs who agree to play a propaganda match against a German team. The plan? To use the game as a cover for a mass escape. The film is famous for its blend of wartime drama and genuine football action, featuring some impressive skills displayed by the real players on screen. It culminates in a truly iconic match sequence that's become legendary in sports cinema.

Escape to Victory

4. The Miracle of Bern (2003)

This German film tells the deeply moving true story of West Germany's victory in the 1954 FIFA World Cup final against the heavily favored Hungarian 'Golden Team'. Known as "The Miracle of Bern", this event held immense significance for a nation still recovering from the devastation of WWII. The movie weaves together the story of the national team, led by coach Sepp Herberger, with the personal tale of a young boy and his estranged, returning POW father. It captures the way this unexpected sporting triumph lifted the spirits of an entire country, providing a sense of hope and national identity when it was desperately needed. It's a powerful historical drama centered around one of football's most legendary upsets.

The Miracle of Bern

3. The Damned United (2009)

Step onto the pitch with one of football's most controversial figures in "The Damned United". This biographical drama focuses on Brian Clough's ill-fated 44-day tenure as manager of Leeds United in 1974. Michael Sheen delivers an absolutely captivating performance as Clough, perfectly capturing his arrogance, genius, and deep-seated rivalry with Don Revie. The film brilliantly portrays the clash of personalities and philosophies, delving into the psychological warfare and the intense pressure cooker environment of top-tier English football in the 70s. It's less about the matches and more about the man, offering a fascinating, albeit dramatized, look at a true legend's lowest point. A compelling watch for football history buffs.

The Damned United

2. Goal! (2005)

"Goal!" kicks off an exciting trilogy following the journey of Santiago Muñez, a talented young player from East Los Angeles who gets a life-changing opportunity to try out for Newcastle United in England. This film really captures the grit and determination it takes to make it in professional football. What makes it stand out is the effort to ground it in reality – they actually filmed at St James' Park and included cameos from real players and managers of the time, adding a layer of authenticity that many sports movies miss. It's a classic underdog story filled with trials, triumphs, and the sheer passion for the sport. You'll feel every tackle and celebrate every goal alongside Santiago as he chases his dream.

Goal!

1. Bend It Like Beckham (2002)

Get ready for a feel-good sports comedy that truly scores! "Bend It Like Beckham" is an absolute triumph, blending cultures, dreams, and the beautiful game with effortless charm. It tells the story of Jess, a young woman from a strict Sikh family in London who secretly pursues her passion for football, inspired by her idol, David Beckham. Alongside her friend Jules, played wonderfully by Keira Knightley in one of her breakout roles, Jess navigates family expectations, cultural traditions, and the challenges of chasing a dream. Director Gurinder Chadha crafted a film that's not just about soccer, but about identity, friendship, and breaking barriers. It's funny, heartwarming, and features some genuinely exciting football sequences. A must-watch for anyone who believes in following their heart, no matter the obstacles.

Bend It Like Beckham

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