A film about the worst football team in the world seems like a strange place to start for the Greatest Never series. On the contrary, Next Goal Wins is a story about true underdogs, tradition, pride, family, character and all with the classic cinderella story to boot.

In 2001, American Samoa surrendered 31 goals during a single game. The result was a world record and left them to the bottom of FIFA’s rankings. Next Goal Wins, joins the squad a decade later, during which they have registered two goals in the past decade and are in desperate need of help. With the world cup qualifiers approaching, they approach the US Soccer Federation for support – they send Dutch phenomenon Thomas Rongen.

With only goal keeper Nicky Salapu remaining from the team that registered the record defeat, Rongen goes about shaping up the side with his trademark tough and direct approach that has built his reputation. In typical film fashion, however, this is not to be his regular gig.

 

 

What’s so special about it?

What follows is a fascinating story, woven with slick editing, a great soundtrack and a resulting film which is built for all. In no way is this your regular sports film. Mark Kermode penned for the Guardian “whether or not you give two hoots about ‘the beautiful game’ (and I don’t), this charming and uplifting documentary will have you cheering for the underdogs and wishing that all footballers were this humble, determined and just plain decent.”

This honestly will have you in hysterics, gripping your cinema seat, shouting at the screen and perhaps – like both Kermode and I endured – even reaching for the tissues.

 

 

Final thoughts?

This is a genuine story that examines the philosophy of the island nation, as well as that of the beautiful game. From Rongen’s journey dealing with personal loss to Jaiyah Saelua’s history making appearance as FIFA’s first transgendered player, Next Goal Wins digs deep into the psyche and potential of sport. The filmmakers have produced a classic, and it’s an unknown that you should familiarise yourself with as soon as possible.