The 10 Best Soccer-Related Movies for Every Fan to Watch

 

 

Soccer, the world’s most popular sport, has inspired countless films that capture the drama, passion, and humanity on and off the pitch. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for an inspiring story, these 10 soccer-related movies are sure to captivate you.

 

1. Bend It Like Beckham (2002)

 

Director: Gurinder Chadha

This beloved British film tells the story of Jesminder “Jess” Bhamra, a young woman torn between her passion for soccer and her traditional Indian family’s expectations. With humor, heart, and David Beckham as a source of inspiration, this film is a celebration of chasing dreams.

 

2. Goal! The Dream Begins (2005)

 

Director: Danny Cannon

This rags-to-riches tale follows Santiago Muñez, a young man from Los Angeles who earns a chance to play professional soccer in England with Newcastle United. It’s a story of perseverance, ambition, and the challenges of adapting to life in the spotlight.

 

3. Shaolin Soccer (2001)

 

Director: Stephen Chow

A unique blend of martial arts and soccer, this hilarious Hong Kong comedy features a group of Shaolin monks using their kung fu skills on the field. It’s over-the-top, action-packed, and unlike any other soccer film you’ll see.

 

4. The Damned United (2009)

 

Director: Tom Hooper

This gripping drama is based on the true story of Brian Clough’s tumultuous 44-day tenure as the manager of Leeds United in the 1970s. Featuring a stellar performance by Michael Sheen, it delves into the complexities of ego, ambition, and football politics.

 

5. Green Street Hooligans (2005)

 

Director: Lexi Alexander

While this film focuses more on soccer culture than the game itself, it explores the dark world of football hooliganism in England. Elijah Wood stars as an American drawn into the violent world of fan rivalries, offering a gritty perspective on the sport’s tribal intensity.

 

6. Escape to Victory (1981)

 

Director: John Huston

Set during World War II, this classic film tells the story of Allied prisoners of war who play a soccer match against a German team as part of a propaganda stunt. Starring soccer legends like Pelé and Bobby Moore alongside Sylvester Stallone and Michael Caine, it’s a thrilling mix of sports and wartime drama.

 

7. Pelé: Birth of a Legend (2016)

 

Directors: Jeff Zimbalist, Michael Zimbalist

This biographical film chronicles the rise of Pelé, one of the greatest soccer players of all time, from his humble beginnings in Brazil to his World Cup triumph at the age of 17. It’s an inspiring tribute to the power of determination and raw talent.

 

8. Ladybugs (1992)

 

Director: Sidney J. Furie

This lighthearted comedy stars Rodney Dangerfield as a man who coaches a girls’ soccer team to impress his boss. With plenty of laughs and heartfelt moments, it’s a fun watch for soccer fans of all ages.

 

9. Rudo y Cursi (2008)

 

Director: Carlos Cuarón

This Mexican dramedy stars Gael García Bernal and Diego Luna as two brothers who rise from poverty to become professional soccer players, only to be torn apart by fame and ambition. It’s a poignant exploration of family, rivalry, and the pitfalls of success.

 

10. The Two Escobars (2010)

 

Directors: Jeff Zimbalist, Michael Zimbalist

This ESPN documentary examines the lives of Colombian soccer star Andrés Escobar and drug lord Pablo Escobar. It highlights the intersection of sports, crime, and politics during a tumultuous period in Colombian history, offering a sobering look at soccer’s darker side.

 

Honorable Mentions:

• Kicking and Screaming (2005) – A hilarious Will Ferrell comedy about a competitive youth soccer coach.

• Fever Pitch (1997) – A romantic comedy that intertwines life, love, and soccer fandom.

 

These films capture the spirit of soccer in all its forms—joyful, dramatic, inspiring, and sometimes even chaotic. Whether you’re in the mood for action, comedy, or a powerful true story, there’s a soccer movie here for everyone.