The FIFA World Cup isn't just the most-watched sporting event in the world—it's also inspired some truly amazing films. For football fans and movie lovers alike, these movies capture the drama, passion, and excitement of the beautiful game at its highest level. Here are 10 must-watch English-language films about the World Cup that will get you pumped for the next tournament.

1. "The Two Escobars" (2010) – When Football and Crime Collided

This gripping ESPN documentary tells the unbelievable true story of how Colombian football and the drug cartels became intertwined during the 1994 World Cup. Focusing on footballer Andrés Escobar (who was tragically murdered after scoring an own goal) and drug lord Pablo Escobar, it's a shocking look at how the World Cup can become about much more than just sports.

2. "Looking for Eric" (2009) – A Postman's Football Fantasy

Starring legendary Manchester United player Eric Cantona as himself, this heartfelt British comedy follows a depressed postman who finds inspiration through imaginary conversations with his football idol. While not strictly about the World Cup, its themes of how football can lift people's spirits makes it essential viewing during tournament season.

3. "The Game of Their Lives" (2005) – America's Forgotten Football Heroes

This underdog story recalls the incredible true story of the 1950 US World Cup team—a ragtag group of amateurs who famously defeated England 1-0 in one of football's greatest upsets. Perfect for those who love seeing David beat Goliath on the world's biggest stage.

4. "Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait" (2006) – Football as High Art

An experimental French film that uses 17 synchronized cameras to follow Zinedine Zidane throughout a single 2005 match. While not about the World Cup specifically, it features one of the tournament's greatest ever players in mesmerizing detail, showing what makes football geniuses tick.

5. "The Other Final" (2003) – When Last Place Means Everything

On the same day as the 2002 World Cup Final, two of the world's lowest-ranked teams (Bhutan and Montserrat) played their own match. This heartwarming documentary shows what football means to players and fans when simply competing—rather than winning—is the ultimate dream.

6. "Once in a Lifetime: The Extraordinary Story of the New York Cosmos" (2006)

While focused on the NASL rather than the World Cup, this fascinating documentary explains how stars like Pelé transformed American soccer in the 1970s—laying the foundation for the US hosting the 1994 World Cup and today's MLS boom. Essential viewing for understanding football's global growth.

7. "Dare to Dream: The Story of the U.S. Women's Soccer Team" (2005)

Following the US Women's National Team (including Mia Hamm and Brandi Chastain) in their 1990s-2000s heyday, this documentary shows how they became World Cup champions and global icons for women's sports. Inspiring for any young player dreaming of World Cup glory.

8. "The Referee" (2010) – The Man in the Middle

Giving rare insight into the most scrutinized job in sports, this film follows World Cup referee Howard Webb through the intense pressure of officiating at the highest level—including the infamous 2010 final where he handed out 14 yellow cards.

9. "The Official FIFA World Cup Films" (Various Years)

Produced after every tournament since 1954, these official recaps (especially the classics hosted by Michael Caine and Patrick Stewart) beautifully capture each World Cup's unforgettable moments through archival footage and commentary, making them perfect for reliving past tournaments.

10. "Soka Africa" (2012) – Football Changing Lives

This powerful documentary follows two African players hoping football will be their ticket out of poverty as the 2010 South Africa World Cup approaches. A moving look at what the World Cup dream means in developing nations where football talent might be the only path to a better life.

Why These World Cup Movies Matter

Great football movies do more than just show great goals—they capture why we love the game. Whether it's underdogs overcoming impossible odds, nations uniting behind their teams, or individuals transforming their lives through talent and determination, these films showcase football's unique power to inspire. During World Cup years especially, they help us appreciate the tournament's deeper significance beyond just trophies and rankings.

For young players today, these movies provide something even more valuable—proof that football can change lives, bridge cultures, and create moments that people remember forever. The next time you're counting down to a World Cup match, consider watching one of these films to get in the spirit. You'll gain a whole new appreciation for what happens when the world comes together through the beautiful game.