As the summer of 2025 unfolds, anticipation for the 2026 World Cup is already reaching a fever pitch. With the tournament set to be shared by the United States, Mexico and Canada, fans are looking for ways to immerse themselves in the sport’s culture beyond the pitch. A growing number of filmmakers and streamers have responded by curating a slate of soccer‑centric movies and series that promise both nostalgia and fresh perspectives.
From the Pitch to the Screen
Among the most talked‑about titles is "Dear England," a drama that chronicles Gareth Southgate’s tenure as England manager from 2018 to 2024. The film offers a behind‑the‑scenes look at the pressures of national expectation, tactical evolution and the personal toll of leading a footballing nation.
'Saipan' shifts the focus to the early‑2000s, dramatizing the uneasy relationship between Roy Keane and manager Mick McCarthy ahead of the 2002 World Cup. The psychological tension captured on screen mirrors the real‑life fallout that still resonates with Irish football fans.
'Goal' remains a cult classic, following the fictional journey of Santiago Muñez, a Mexican immigrant who climbs the ranks of professional football in Europe. Though the protagonist is a creation of screenwriter, the narrative taps into the universal dream of escaping modest beginnings through talent and perseverance.
Another real‑world story is "Welcome to Wrexham," a documentary that records the surprising takeover of the Welsh club by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. Their investment has revitalized the community, turned the club into a global brand, and sparked debates about the future of lower‑division football.
Brian Clough’s brief but dramatic spell at Leeds United is the subject of "The Damned United." The film compresses the 44‑day tenure into a tense exploration of ambition, rivalry and the thin line between triumph and collapse.
'Bend It Like Beckham' offers a lighter, yet poignant, look at two young women in London striving to break into professional soccer despite cultural and familial obstacles. The comedy‑drama highlights the growing visibility of women’s sport while celebrating personal agency.
'Ted Lasso' has become a cultural phenomenon, blending American optimism with English football culture. The series, led by Jason Sudeikis, has introduced millions to the nuances of the English Premier League and the power of positivity on and off the field.
All of these titles are now accessible through a variety of streaming platforms, including BBC, Prime Video, Fandango, Hulu, Roku, Disney+ and Apple TV, making it easier than ever for viewers to binge‑watch before the World Cup kicks off.