20 Must-Watch Soccer Documentaries That Will Inspire You |

From behind-the-scenes team experiences to individual journeys — soccer documentaries have a way of immersing you right into the spirit of the game, beneath goals and trophies, inside the passion, the journey and the triumphs that are emblematic of the sport.

Be it you’re a die-hard soccer fan or a casual viewer discovering the beauty of the game, these films bring soccer’s history, emotion and behind-the-scenes drama to life.

They narrate untold stories of legendary players, unforgettable matches, and the cultural significance of the world’s most beloved sport.

There are so many documentaries out there, how do you decide which ones are worth your time? And that’s why we’re here: we’ve put together a list of 20 must-watch documentaries that distill the spirit of the game.

These documentaries will make you laugh, cry and rejoice in soccer like never before.

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Why Watch Soccer Documentaries?

Soccer documentaries tell more than just the plot of a game; they provide a glimpse into the drama, passion, and cultural impact of the world’s most popular sport.

Soccer documentaries — at their heart — are human stories. They illuminate the personal struggles and triumphs of players, coaches, and fans alike, and the sacrifices and resilience that ensure the greatness of legends like Lionel Messi or Pelé will be eternal.

Aside from the individual personalities, documentaries allow you to relive historic matches and tournaments, as well as glimpse behind-the-scenes perspectives on strategies, rivalries, and high-stakes moments.

Soccer is more than a sport; it is culture and society. Documentaries examine its capacity to unite communities, spur change, and define identities around the globe.

Documentaries like The Two Escobars showcase the part soccer plays in political and cultural movements, so they can be interesting to even those who don’t watch sports.

For hardcore fans of the intricacies of the game, documentaries deconstruct the strategies, tactics, and physical demands that are its signature. This deeper insight changes the way you observe and savor every match.

Even more inspiring are the comeback narratives — underdogs exceeding expectations or players overcoming personal challenges.

These stories echo well beyond the field, inspiring audiences in their own lives.

**1. Pele: Birth of a Legend (2016)**

20 Must-Watch Soccer Documentaries That Will Inspire You

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video

Why You Should Watch: If you want to understand the roots of soccer greatness, start with Pelé. This biographical film takes you through the early life of Edson Arantes do Nascimento, better known as Pelé, from his humble beginnings in Brazil to becoming one of the greatest players of all time. It’s a story of perseverance, talent, and the power of dreams.

**2. Diego Maradona (2019)**

Where to Watch: Hulu

Why You Should Watch: Directed by Asif Kapadia (the genius behind Senna and Amy), this documentary dives deep into the life of Diego Maradona, one of soccer’s most controversial and iconic figures. From his rise to fame in Naples to his struggles with addiction and fame, this film is a raw and unfiltered look at the man behind the legend.

**3. The Two Escobars (2010)**

Where to Watch: ESPN+

Why You Should Watch: This gripping documentary tells the intertwined stories of Pablo Escobar, the infamous Colombian drug lord, and Andrés Escobar, the Colombian soccer player whose own life was tragically cut short. It’s a powerful exploration of how soccer and crime collided in Colombia during the 1990s.