Best Football Documentaries of All Time

If you’re a football enthusiast looking for some great films to watch, you’ve come to the right place. This article is all about the best football documentaries that have been made throughout history. Football is a game filled with drama, stories, and unforgettable moments, making it the perfect subject for captivating documentaries. So let’s dive into some of the most compelling football documentaries ever made.

Honorable Mention

Before we get into the top football documentaries, let’s give an honorable mention to some notable films:

Sir Alex Ferguson: Never Give In
Sunderland ‘Til I Die
Beckham
Les Bleus
An Impossible Job

The Figo Affair: The Transfer That Changed Football

Let’s start with one of the most controversial football transfers of all time. In 2000, Luis Figo, the star player of Barcelona, shocked the world by joining arch-rival Real Madrid. This transfer not only broke the record for the most expensive transfer in football history but also sparked intense emotions among fans. The Figo Affair examines the different dimensions and consequences of this historic transfer, providing viewers with a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the world of football.

King Otto

In 2004, the Greece national football team achieved the impossible. Against all odds, they won the UEFA Euro Championship and became European champions. King Otto delves into the incredible journey of the Greek team, led by coach Otto Rehhagel, and their triumph at the tournament. This documentary shows that with determination, teamwork, and belief, even the underdogs can achieve greatness on the football pitch.

Busby, Stein and Shankly: The Football Men

Matt Busby, Jock Stein, and Bill Shankly are three legendary Scottish managers who left an indelible mark on the football world. The Football Men explores the lives and careers of these iconic figures, tracing their humble beginnings and their rise to greatness. These three men not only revolutionized their respective clubs but also left a lasting legacy that continues to influence football to this day.

I Believe in Miracles

Brian Clough’s tenure as the manager of Nottingham Forest is the stuff of legend. This documentary tells the remarkable story of how Clough took a second-tier English football club and transformed them into champions. I Believe in Miracles showcases the magic and charisma of Clough, who defied all odds to guide Nottingham Forest to back-to-back European Cup victories, achieving what many considered impossible.

North Korea – The Game of Their Lives

In the 1966 World Cup, North Korea, considered the underdogs, shocked the world with their incredible performance. The Game of Their Lives recounts the story of how this seemingly weaker team defeated Italy and took the lead against Portugal, in what became one of the most memorable matches in football history. This documentary captures the essence of the beautiful game and showcases the impact of determination and passion on the football pitch.

Hillsborough

The Hillsborough disaster in 1989 was one of the darkest moments in football history. This tragic event claimed the lives of 96 Liverpool fans and resulted in significant changes in stadium safety regulations. Hillsborough sheds light on the truth behind the tragedy, revealing the missed opportunities to prevent it and providing a voice to the survivors and the victims’ families. It is a poignant and important documentary that serves as a reminder of the need for continuous improvement in the world of football.

The Class of 92

The Class of 92 refers to a group of talented players from Manchester United’s academy, including David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt, Gary Neville, and Phil Neville. This documentary chronicles their journey from youth prospects to becoming stars under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson. It provides an intimate look at their development and the impact they had on the football world. For any Manchester United fan or football enthusiast, this documentary is a must-watch.

The Two Escobars

The Two Escobars is a powerful documentary that intertwines the stories of two unrelated individuals who shared the same last name. Pablo Escobar, the notorious drug lord, and Andres Escobar, a talented Colombian footballer, both left an indelible mark on Colombian society. This documentary explores the intersection of football and the social realities of Colombia, shedding light on the impact of both individuals on the country. It is a gripping and thought-provoking film that is a must-watch for any football fan.

Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait

Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait is a unique and artistic documentary that captures the essence of one of football’s greatest players, Zinedine Zidane. The film takes an innovative approach by focusing solely on Zidane during a game between Real Madrid and Villarreal. Seventeen different cameras provide various angles and frames, immersing viewers in the game and capturing the sounds of the crowd, the players, and the ball. This documentary is a true delight for fans of Zidane and the beautiful game.

Maradona by Kusturica

Directed by Emir Kusturica, Maradona by Kusturica offers a unique and captivating perspective on the legendary Argentine footballer, Diego Maradona. Kusturica, known for his innovative filmmaking style, provides a deeper understanding of Maradona’s life and career. This documentary is a must-watch for any fan who wants to delve into the enigmatic world of one of football’s greatest icons.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Conclusion

These are just a few of the best football documentaries that have been made, showcasing the drama, passion, and inspiring stories that make football such a beloved sport. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply someone interested in exploring the world of football, these documentaries are sure to captivate and entertain you. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy these incredible films that celebrate the beautiful game.

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