Football is a sport that fascinates millions of people around the world. For fans of the sport, watching football documentaries is the best way to learn more about the history of your favourite club or player. They will give you the excitement and pressure that the player or club felt in their difficult times or their moments of glory. So here are the top 5 best football documentaries not to be missed.
1. “The Two Escobars” (2010)
“The Two Escobars” is a documentary released in 2010, directed by Jeff and Michael Zimbalist. The film explores the complex links between football and politics in Colombia in the 1990s by focusing on two men named Escobar.
Andres Escobar was a talented Colombian football player who was tragically murdered after the 1994 World Cup. Pablo Escobar, meanwhile, was the notorious Colombian drug lord who had an influence on football and society in general.
The documentary explores how the rise of Pablo Escobar and his influence on Colombian football contributed to the tragedy of Andres Escobar. It also offers an insight into the difficult situation in Colombia in the 1990s and how football was used as a propaganda tool by political groups.
The film is filled with interviews with Colombian football players, journalists, political experts and family members of both Escobars. “The Two Escobars” is a fascinating documentary that examines the complexity of football and politics in a country marked by violence and corruption.
2. “Diego Maradona” (2019)
“Diego Maradona” is a documentary directed by Asif Kapadia, released in 2019. It traces the tumultuous life of Diego Maradona, one of the most controversial football legends of all time.
The documentary begins with Maradona’s arrival in Naples in 1984, where he is welcomed as a hero and experiences the height of his career. However, it also explores Maradona’s demons, including his drug use, his tumultuous relationships and his involvement in political scandals.
The documentary is based on rare archival footage and exclusive interviews with Maradona and members of his family. It offers an intimate perspective on the life of the Argentine player, and shows how he became a football icon, but also a complex and often unpredictable character.
“Diego Maradona” is a compelling documentary that provides a deeper understanding of the life of one of the most iconic figures in football.
3. “Zidane” (2006)
“Zidane” is a documentary by Douglas Gordon and Philippe Parreno, released in 2006. The film follows Zinedine Zidane, one of the greatest footballers of all time, during a football match in 2005 between Real Madrid and Villarreal.
The documentary is filmed using only thirty-five cameras, which allows all of Zidane’s movements on the pitch to be captured. The sound of the film is also important, as it is composed of crowd sounds and electro-acoustic music.
The film shows Zidane’s concentration on the pitch, as well as his incredible technique. However, it also explores Zidane’s introverted personality and his commitment to his family and his Algerian roots.
“Zidane” is a unique documentary that allows you to see football from a different perspective. The film is a fascinating and immersive cinematic experience that shows the importance of football in Zidane’s life, while exploring the complexity of his personality and cultural heritage.
4. “Next Goal Wins” (2014)
“Next Goal Wins” is a documentary released in 2014 and directed by Mike Brett and Steve Jamison. It follows the American Samoa national football team, considered the worst football team in the world after losing 31-0 to Australia in 2001.
The documentary follows the arrival of a new coach, Thomas Rongen, a former professional player, and his team as they prepare for the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The team faces many obstacles, including a weak squad, cultural differences and external pressures.
The film shows the team’s determination to overcome the obstacles and improve their game. It also provides an insight into Samoan culture and the impact of football on the community.
“Next Goal Wins” is a moving and inspiring documentary that shows the importance of team spirit and perseverance in sport. It also offers a unique perspective on a team that is often ignored and marginalised in the world of football.
5. “Pelé” (2021)
“Pele” is a documentary released in 2021 and directed by David Tryhorn and Ben Nicholas. It explores the life and career of the legendary Brazilian football player, Pele, who is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time.
The film follows Pele’s rise from humble beginnings in the favelas of Sao Paulo to winning the 1970 World Cup. The documentary also offers a glimpse into the Brazilian culture of the 1950s and 1960s, as well as the challenges Pele faced as a public figure and national icon.
The documentary includes rare archival footage, as well as exclusive interviews with Pelé and other football personalities, including Zagallo, Jairzinho and Carlos Alberto.
“Pele” is a compelling documentary that shows the importance of Pele in the history of football and in Brazilian culture. It also offers a personal perspective on the player’s life, his triumphs and challenges, and his lasting legacy in the world of football.