Next Goal Wins

Next Goal Wins is an inspiring and heartfelt documentary sports film directed by British filmmakers Mike Brett and Steve Jamison. Released in 2014, this film is a powerful story about redemption and the underdog, situated in the heart of American Samoa. This documentary is far more than just another chronicle about sports—it delves deeply into the complex issues of identity, cultural diversity, struggle, failure, and the indomitable human spirit.

The film stars Thomas Rongen, a Dutch-American soccer coach, the first-of-its-kind transgender player, Jaiyah Saelua, and goalkeeper Nicky Salapu, offering an inviting portrait of a multi-faceted team trying to shake off their underachiever tag. This critically acclaimed documentary follows Rongen's journey of breathing fresh life into the national soccer team of American Samoa, once labelled 'the worst football team in the world.' After suffering the heaviest defeat in the history of international football—losing 31-0 to Australia back in 2001—the team had gone over a decade without a single victory. The film beautifully captures their path to transformation led by their new coach, Rongen.

Thomas Rongen, a seasoned and successful coach, takes on the nearly impossible task of preparing the technically lacking, yet incessantly enthusiastic and hardworking, American Samoa national football team to qualify for the 2014 World Cup. Over the year leading up to the event, Rongen infuses the team with a new vibe, cementing a profound bond between him and his players through their shared underdog spirit.

One of the striking highlights of the movie is the highlighting of Jaiyah Saelua, a member of the Fa’afafine, the third gender native to Samoan culture, who became the first ever transgender player to compete in a World Cup qualifier, opening a dialogue about cultural and sexual identity. Saelua, both on and off the pitch, encapsulates the spirit of the American Samoa team and the nation's resilience and determination to succeed against all odds.

Nicky Salapu, the goalkeeper, is equally significant in the film. The player, who was in goal during the catastrophic loss to Australia, carries the weight of the defeat. His personal journey of redemption and the desire to rectify past mistakes embody the collective spirit of the team, adding another emotional layer to the narrative.

Next Goal Wins powerfully presents the greatly diverse backgrounds of the players. The film does an excellent job diving into the players' personal lives, touching on issues such as family, career, and societal expectations—all adding a human layer to what could've been just another sports documentary. The film's ability to showcase the blend of multiculturalism, the gender spectrum, and aspiration in a single frame is a testament to filmmakers Mike Brett and Steve Jamison's insightful direction and storytelling.

The film beautifully fuses eye-catching cinematography of the Samoan landscape with an emotionally uplifting score, creating a fulfilling cinematic experience. The candid nature of the interviews and the natural ease in which the players talk about their struggles successfully invoke empathy, connecting viewers with the tale on a very personal level.

Next Goal Wins is not merely a film about soccer or World Cup qualification. It's a portrayal of the human spirit's resilience, determination, and passion. Regardless of your interest in soccer, this film is sure to connect with you due to its universal themes of fostering unity through diversity, embracing and celebrating identity, and facing obstacles with unwavering courage. It is a captivating watch that invariably leaves you cheering for the team, sharing in their tears and laughter, and reigniting your belief in the power of perseverance and the insurmountable strength of the human spirit. It's more than a film – it’s a celebration of life.