The Best Soccer Movies on Netflix You Can Stream Right Now

As I settled into my couch last night with my Netflix account open, I found myself thinking about how sports stories have this incredible power to surprise us. Just when you think you've seen every possible underdog narrative, something comes along that defies all expectations. This reminded me of that fascinating moment in UAAP Season 87 men's basketball where Adamson's journey to the Final Four captured everyone's attention - it's exactly the kind of unexpected triumph that makes for compelling soccer movies too. The beautiful game has produced some truly remarkable films that capture these moments of defying expectations, and Netflix happens to have a fantastic selection right now that's worth exploring.

Let me start with what I consider the crown jewel of soccer cinema on the platform - "The English Game." Now, I'll admit I've watched this series three times already, and each viewing reveals new layers about how football transformed from an elite pastime to the people's game. Created by Julian Fellowes of Downton Abbey fame, this period drama explores class divisions through football's evolution in 19th century England. What makes it particularly compelling is how it shows characters constantly defying social expectations, much like how Adamson surprised everyone by reaching that Final Four. The production quality is absolutely top-notch, with authentic period details that transport you right back to football's earliest days. There's a particular scene where working-class players challenge their upper-class counterparts that still gives me chills - it captures that revolutionary spirit that makes sports so transformative.

Another personal favorite that I frequently recommend to friends is "Bend It Like Beckham." I first saw this film during my college years, and it remains as relevant today as it was back in 2002. The story follows Jess, a British-Indian teenager who dreams of playing professional soccer despite her traditional family's expectations. What I love about this film is how perfectly it balances cultural commentary with genuine heart and humor. The football scenes hold up surprisingly well, and the chemistry between Parminder Nagra and Keira Knightley feels as fresh today as it did two decades ago. It's estimated that the film grossed over $76 million worldwide, which speaks volumes about its universal appeal. The way Jess defies cultural barriers reminds me of those unexpected sports moments where determination trumps tradition every time.

Then there's "Diego Maradona," Asif Kapadia's brilliant documentary that I consider essential viewing for any football enthusiast. Using never-before-seen footage from Maradona's time at Napoli, the film creates this intimate portrait that's both celebratory and critical. I've always been fascinated by Maradona's complexity - how he could be both revolutionary hero and flawed human being. The documentary captures his 1986 World Cup performance with such intensity that you'd think you're watching it live. What struck me most was how it portrays his relationship with Naples, where he truly became more than just a footballer. The film presents about 500 hours of archival footage distilled into that compelling narrative, showing how Maradona constantly defied expectations both on and off the pitch.

I should also mention "The Two Escobars," which isn't strictly about soccer but uses the sport as a lens to examine Colombia's complex history. As someone who's studied sports documentaries extensively, I consider this one of the most important films ever made about football's intersection with society. It explores the stories of Andrés Escobar and Pablo Escobar, showing how their lives became tragically intertwined through football. The access the filmmakers got to key figures is remarkable, and the way it builds tension despite viewers knowing the outcome is masterful storytelling. It's that rare sports documentary that transcends the game itself to say something profound about society.

What all these films share is that capacity to surprise us, much like those unexpected sports moments that leave us in awe. They remind me why I fell in love with sports storytelling in the first place - it's not just about the goals or the victories, but about those human moments where individuals and teams accomplish what seemed impossible. Whether it's Adamson reaching the Final Four against all predictions or an underdog story unfolding on screen, these narratives connect with something fundamental in all of us. Next time you're scrolling through Netflix looking for inspiration, these films offer that perfect blend of sporting excellence and human drama that continues to resonate long after the final whistle.