If you’re reading this, you’re probably one of the many fans from around the world who adore soccer movies on Netflix, or as some call them, football movies. Soccer’s appeal lies in its fast-paced action, straightforward rules, charismatic players, and remarkable passion that transcends from the stands to the field. Even those who typically have no interest in sports can’t resist getting caught up in the excitement.
The World Cup takes this love for the game to a whole new level, as teams from across the globe compete for glory and the pride of their nations every four years. In fact, during the 2018 competition, an estimated 3.5 billion people, which is more than half of the global population aged four and older, tuned in to watch, according to FIFA, the sport’s governing body.
The 2022 FIFA World Cup is set to kick off in Qatar on November 20. If you’re eagerly counting down the hours, we’ve got something to keep you entertained. Here’s a list of 12 soccer-themed movies on Netflix to enjoy before the World Cup begins. These movies range from behind-the-scenes documentaries to heartwarming stories, and they’re sure to get you in the spirit of the game. So, hit play and aim for the goal!
*All the Freckles in the World*
All the Freckles in the World
Travel back to 1994, where a 13-year-old named José Miguel, played by Hanssel Casillas, embarks on a new chapter in his life as he starts at a different school in Mexico City. In this bustling city, everyone is caught up in the excitement of the ongoing World Cup. However, José couldn’t be less interested in soccer.
That is until he discovers that his love-at-first-sight, Cristina Palazuelos, portrayed by Loreto Peralta, is a devoted soccer fan. To make matters more challenging, she has been dating the school’s star player, Kenji, portrayed by Luis de la Rosa, for years. José’s new friends, Liliana (Andrea Sutton) and Rodrigo Malo (Alejandro Flores) assure him that Cristina and Kenji are an inseparable couple.
But José refuses to accept this reality. Instead, he persuades a group of social outsiders to form their own soccer team and enter their school’s very own “World Cup” championship. José firmly believes that with the help of Rodrigo, a 19-year-old repeating freshman who has outgrown his classmates, they can triumph over Kenji’s team in the finals and win Cristina’s heart.
This heartwarming coming-of-age comedy has something for everyone, whether you’re as passionate about soccer as Cristina or as disinterested as José. It not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons about friendship, family dynamics, being true to oneself, and confronting unconscious biases.
*Anelka Misunderstood*
Anelka Misunderstood
If you’re the kind of soccer fan who relishes the drama – the dramatic falls, player disputes, and even the audacious words exchanged with referees – then you’re in for a treat with this documentary spotlighting the notorious French footballer, Nicolas Anelka, whose 20-year career has been riddled with controversy.
Anelka’s journey is a rollercoaster, from inciting a player strike during the 2010 World Cup and facing expulsion from the team to the controversial incident of allegedly making an antisemitic gesture after scoring a goal for West Brom in 2013. In this documentary, Anelka himself addresses these headline-grabbing moments.
But it’s not just Anelka’s voice we hear. This film also features insights from other prominent figures in the football world, such as his fellow players Thierry Henry and Didier Drogba, as well as Arsène Wenger, the former French football manager and player who currently holds the position of FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development.
Directed by the French filmmaker Franck Nataf, the documentary delves deep into the question of why this highly skilled striker had such a short fuse. It traces Anelka’s story, from his humble beginnings playing pickup games in the park to his stints at clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, Real Madrid, and beyond. It’s a compelling exploration of a complex football figure.
*Antoine Griezmann: The Making of a Legend*
Antoine Griezmann: The Making of a Legend
Witness the incredible journey of an unexpected underdog who rose to become a champion in the 2018 World Cup. It’s a story we all cherish, and you’re bound to be captivated by it too.
At the outset, Antoine Griezmann, the French player, faced doubt. He was labeled as too small, too slow, and too weak to ever become a soccer sensation. The naysayers argued that the game had evolved, becoming faster and more physically demanding, and he wouldn’t be able to keep pace.
In this enlightening hour-long documentary, we witness Griezmann’s numerous setbacks and failures. Through a blend of archival footage and interviews, including heartfelt conversations with Griezmann’s father, we gain insight into the determined yet sensitive forward’s journey. He struggled tirelessly to make an impression and secure a spot on a team, attending countless tryouts.
Ultimately, his breakthrough came when the Spanish professional sports club Real Sociedad, extended a genuine opportunity to him. From there, we have the privilege of watching his incredible ascent to soccer stardom.
*Azzurri: Road to Wembley*
Azzurri: Road to Wembley
Wearing a Messi or Ronaldo jersey is more than just showing support. It’s about cherishing your favorite players. Yet, the real magic happens when teammates bond and this documentary celebrates that unique connection.
It follows the Italian soccer team’s journey at the 2020 European Championship, from their first match to the thrilling final against England. The focus is on the Azzurri’s original players, creating an emotional rollercoaster from start to finish.
Certainly, the sports action is there, full of excitement and tension, but what truly shines are the relationships between the team members and coaches. Their casual conversations, endless jokes, and effortless banter bring lightness to the serious training and high-stakes matches.
If you’re in the mood for a heartwarming film with lots of warm embraces, look no further. Stop scrolling and give it a watch.
*Back of the Net*
Back of the Net
Let’s dive into our tale, where a thrilled Cory Bailey (played by Sofia Wylie) receives a shiny new soccer ball in the mail, only to promptly paint it red and position it as Saturn in her backyard’s solar system diorama. Cory’s passion lies in science, not soccer. She had her summer all planned out at the Harold Science Academy on a boat in the middle of the ocean. However, a mix-up with acronyms leads her to board the Harold Soccer Academy bus instead.
On the bright side, she finds herself in beautiful Australia, surrounded by new friends, like her roommates Janessa (Gemma Chua-Tran), Adelle (Yasmin Honeychurch), and Charlotte (Ashleigh Ross). There’s also a charming guy named Oliver (Trae Robin) from the boys’ camp. But on the downside, there’s Edie (Tiarnie Coupland), the mean girl and elite athlete, who isn’t thrilled about Cory catching Oliver’s attention.
To make matters more interesting, Cory has never really played soccer in her life. Could her scientific knowledge be the key to success in sports? If you’re in the mood for a family-friendly, female-driven soccer story, this is the one to watch. It comes complete with delightful Australian accents, captivating teenage performances, authentic gameplay scenes, and a special appearance by the real Australian professional player, Caitlin Foord.
*Baggio: The Divine Ponytail*
Baggio: The Divine Ponytail
This biographical film delves deep into the life of one of Italy’s most cherished soccer legends, focusing on the person behind the player. Roberto Baggio (portrayed by Andrea Arcangeli) is told, “People love you so much because you showed them you’re human.” Thus, while the film showcases remarkable soccer moments, including the unforgettable 1994 World Cup scene, it also sheds light on the relationships, conflicts, injuries, recoveries, and personal transformations that unfolded over Baggio’s 22-year career.
His titular nickname, derived from his distinctive hairstyle and embrace of Buddhist beliefs, which were unusual in historically Roman Catholic Italy, adds an intriguing layer to his character. Growing up in a working-class family, Baggio’s relationship with his father (played by Andrea Pennacchi) is especially complex, as his father remains skeptical of his son’s soccer dreams. Even when Baggio excitedly announces at the family dinner table that he’s just signed a high-paying contract, his father’s immediate response is, “So you can pay for some windows you broke.”
Be prepared to find yourself cheering frequently and perhaps even shedding a tear or two along the way.
*The Hand of God*
The Hand of God
Paolo Sorrentino, the Academy Award-winning writer and director, skillfully paints a heartfelt portrait of his teenage years. The story unfolds in the vibrant backdrop of 1980s Naples. It’s a time when Diego Maradona, the iconic Napoli soccer legend, famously clinched victory for the Italian team in the 1986 World Cup, even if it involved a controversial handball goal.
At the center of this tale is Fabietto, a reserved 16-year-old boy played by Filippo Scotti. He’s an ardent soccer enthusiast with dreams of pursuing philosophy in college. Currently, Fabietto resides in a bustling household, sharing the space with his parents, Saverio and Maria, portrayed by Toni Servillo and Teresa Saponangelo. He also has an aspiring actor brother named Marchino, played by Marlon Joubert, and a sister who seems perpetually locked in the bathroom.
Throughout the narrative, we get glimpses of Fabietto’s interactions with his eccentric and emotionally complex Aunt Patrizia, brought to life by Luisa Ranieri. Fabietto shares a special bond with her, even though she’s a bit unusual.
Beneath the film’s whimsical and humorous moments, a layer of tragedy unfolds. It skillfully weaves together a poignant story encompassing themes of destiny, family, love, loss, and, naturally, the beautiful game of soccer.
*Holy Goalie*
Holy Goalie
When you click to stream this film, the official plot summary unfolds: “A young priest steps in to coach a team of clumsy monks, aiming to win a soccer tournament and rescue their monastery from becoming a hotel.” It may sound whimsical, but every minute is truly worthwhile.
Father Salvador, portrayed by Alain Hernández, dedicates his days to ministering to the youth of Africa, but his unconventional methods, including pocketing Vatican funds, land him in trouble. His journey takes a detour to Saint Theodosius, a struggling monastery on the brink of closure. With persuasion, he convinces Father Munilla, the overseeing monk played by Karra Elejalde, to let their team compete in the Champions Clerum tournament. After all, the Church won’t allow the winning team’s home to be demolished.
Joined by the big-hearted Ramón, portrayed by El Langui, as his assistant coach and a cast of endearing players such as the soft-spoken Simon (Joel Bosqued), the charismatic Jesus (Guillermo Furiase), and the pastry-loving Juan Bautista (Paco Rueda), Father Salvador embarks on a genuine quest for salvation.
*Pelé*
Pelé
Pelé, the illustrious three-time World Cup champion hailing from Brazil, requires no formal introduction. This documentary takes us on a journey through his early years and soccer triumphs, tracing his path from his teenage days with the Santos club team and the Brazil national team all the way to his tenure with the New York Cosmos before retiring in 1977.
Edson Arantes do Nascimento, the global icon known as Pelé, shares his insights in interviews, accompanied by family members, coaches, journalists, politicians, and legendary teammates like Jairzinho, Rivellino, and Mário Zagallo. They not only recount his remarkable story but also provide a glimpse into the historical backdrop of that era, touching upon Brazil’s political unrest and dictatorship during the 1960s.
Through candid conversations captured on camera and the treasure trove of archival footage, we witness Pelé’s extraordinary transformation from a remarkable player to a national hero in just a dozen years. To this day, he remains the sole individual to secure three World Cup titles.
In some of the documentary’s most moving moments, an 80-year-old Pelé revisits his younger self through video clips, reliving the gamut of emotions—the ecstasy, the agony, and the unmistakable glory of the beautiful game, and the destiny that beckoned him forth.
*The Figo Affair: The Transfer That Changed Football*
The Figo Affair: The Transfer That Changed Football
Prepare to delve into the intriguing tale behind one of the most hotly debated episodes in soccer history: the transfer of Luís Figo from FC Barcelona to their archrivals, Real Madrid. During the late 1990s, Figo held a cherished place in the hearts of his nation as a stalwart of his team. However, the accounts presented in this documentary paint a different picture, suggesting that by the summer of 2000, he felt undervalued.
The catalyst for this dramatic shift was Florentino Pérez, a contender for the Real Madrid presidency, who masterminded a scheme to entice Figo to Real Madrid with an astronomical $75 million offer. In a surprising twist, the then FC Barcelona president, Joan Gaspart, claims Figo called him at the stroke of midnight, demanding a more substantial sum to stay. When Gaspart couldn’t meet this demand, Figo made his way to Real Madrid. But, here’s the twist—Figo now disputes the ultimatum story, asserting it’s a complete fabrication.
Regardless of the truth, this transfer forever altered the landscape of soccer deals and swiftly transformed Figo from a hero to a villain. FC Barcelona supporters torched their Figo jerseys, labeled him a traitor, and even resorted to throwing a pig’s head in his direction. This film is replete with crucial figures revealing behind-the-scenes details, and it offers glimpses into pivotal meetings and recorded conversations.
*The Soccer Football Movie*
The Soccer Football Movie
If you’re looking for a movie to get your kids excited about the World Cup, this animated adventure has got you covered. The main idea of the story is that a wicked scientist has swiped the skills of soccer stars like Zlatan Ibrahimović, the legendary Swedish striker, and Megan Rapinoe, the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup champion. They even lend their voices to the characters. Now, it’s the task of four young super fans to help these players get their abilities back. Along the way, they encounter monsters, with Mitch Schauer, known and adored by ’90s kids for “The Angry Beavers,” directing the film. “Weird Al” Yankovic lends his voice too. It’s a win-win situation for everyone.
*Ultras*
Ultras
Sandro, portrayed by Aniello Arena, leads the Apaches, a group of die-hard soccer fans in Naples, Italy, known for their violent tendencies. Their main gig is clashing with rival ultras, also known as “hooligan fans.” However, at almost 50 years old and barred from the soccer scene by the police, Sandro has had enough. Things take a turn when a fellow Apache member is killed, leaving Sandro responsible for his teenage brother, Angelo, played by Ciro Nacca. Sandro begins to question if there’s a better path for both himself and the young Angelo. Meanwhile, a potential upheaval within the gang, led by the younger member Pechegno, portrayed by Simone Borrelli, brews on the horizon.
This drama is so raw and realistic that it often feels like a documentary. To make it clear, the film even starts with a disclaimer stating that “Ultras” is a work of fiction and that no Neapolitan ultras were involved in its creation. However, this doesn’t diminish the film’s captivating and multifaceted exploration of soccer fanaticism, gang culture, power struggles, and the evolution of the human heart.
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