Review of Next Goal Wins (2014) by Mark J — 12 May 2014
American Samoa have not won a competitive match in 17 years and famously suffered a 31-0 defeat at the hands of Australia back in 2001. This Low-key documentary about the world's worst football team charts their training for the world cup play-offs.
When Dutch coach Rongen arrives on the island the leisurely pace of the film picks up. There's some shocking football on display, but also plenty of grit and determination as Rongen starts to make some progress with his bunch of amateur players (one of which is the first transgender player to make a full appearance in a world cup match).
It's a charming film, and a perfect antidote for anyone jaded with the money-grubbing cynicism of the modern game.
This review of Next Goal Wins (2014) was written by Mark J on 12 May 2014.
Next Goal Wins has generally received positive reviews.
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