TNT Sports has recently commissioned ITN Productions for a feature documentary titled "When Soccer Came to America: Goals, Glamour and the Beautiful Game". This 60-minute film explores the rise of professional soccer in the United States, focusing on how it became a cultural phenomenon during the 1970s and 80s.
The North American Soccer League (NASL) is at the heart of this story. The documentary charts its growth, highlighting how global superstars transformed soccer's status in America. As co-hosts of this summer's World Cup and home to high-profile players like Messi and David Beckham in Major League Soccer (MLS), America’s relationship with soccer has never been more prominent.
Ian Rumsey, managing director of content at ITN, expressed excitement about working with TNT Sports on this project. He said that they discovered an amazing archive that will bring this story alive for a new generation preparing for "the greatest show on earth".
Football legends ignite interest
The film delves into how some of history’s greatest footballers - including Pelé, George Best, and Johan Cruyff - brought attention to soccer during their time in NASL. It explores rare archive footage and intimate interviews that reveal how these legends influenced American sports culture. Pelé’s landmark move to New York Cosmos is considered pivotal in sparking a nationwide interest in soccer. Similarly influential were George Best's tenure in the league and Johan Cruyff’s brief but impactful spell in North America.
"When Soccer Came to America" examines how NASL became more than just a sports league; it was an ambitious experiment blending sport with celebrity status aimed at popularizing world football across America.
The documentary features interviews from key figures such as Kely Nascimento (Pelé's daughter), Calum Best (George Best's son), Rodney Marsh (former NASL star and England international), Shep Messing (New York Cosmos goalkeeper) and Clive Toye (the general manager of the New York Cosmos).
"When Soccer Came to America: Goals, Glamour and the Beautiful Game" is set to debut on Saturday, 28 March on TNT Sports in the US. Following its premiere, it will be available for streaming on HBO Max. This documentary promises to be an engaging watch for sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts alike. It offers a unique insight into how soccer gained popularity in America, making it a valuable resource for understanding the history of this beloved sport.
