"We begin with the American Samoa national soccer team's worst ever day at the office: a world record 31-0 drubbing at the hands of Australia in 2001, still the worst loss in international soccer history. Goalkeeper Nicky Salapu is the only player that remains from that fateful day, and despite his upbeat persona, the scars remain. The cloud of defeat still follows the team everywhere."
"The cameras touch down on the island as the team is preparing for the South Pacific Games in New Caledonia. American Samoa have never won a competitive game and are rooted to the bottom of the Fifa rankings. Their facilities are modest, training sessions need to work around players' multiple job and church commitments, and the island's talent pool is limited by a small population and the inevitable exodus of young men leaving to join the US military."
Next Goal Wins follows American Samoa's national soccer team as it attempts to recover from a world-record 31–0 defeat by Australia in 2001. Goalkeeper Nicky Salapu remains from that day and carries enduring emotional scars despite a buoyant demeanor. The team prepares for the South Pacific Games in New Caledonia without any competitive wins and languishing at the bottom of FIFA rankings. Training occurs around players' jobs and church commitments, with modest facilities and a tiny talent pool reduced by emigration to the US military. On-field skills are rudimentary, yet directors Mike Brett and Steve Jamison portray the players with sensitivity, humor, and respect.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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