When Soccer Came to America: Goals, Glamour and the Beautiful Game

When Soccer Came to America: Goals, Glamour and the Beautiful Game

With glitz, glamour and the world’s top players, the North American Soccer League was soccer’s wild child.

2026 · 60 min · Documentary

The film examines the North America Soccer League’s (NASL) explosive growth during the 1970’s and 80’s with some of the greatest footballers in history - including Pelé, George Best, and Johan Cruyff - bringing unprecedented attention to the game. Through rare archive footage and intimate interviews, the documentary explores how the NASL became a cultural phenomenon, blending sport, celebrity, and ambition in a uniquely American experiment to popularize the world’s game.

Directed by Oliver Price

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Cast

Shep Messing Self
Clive Toye Self
Calum Best Self
Pelé Self (Archive Footage)
George Best Self (Archive Footage)
Henry Kissinger Self (Archive Footage)

Make it a double feature

2h 48m together

When Soccer Came to America: Goals, Glamour and the Beautiful Game

Pelé

A close match in mood and era.

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