FIFA World Cup 2026: Maidaan to Jhund, must-watch films for every football fan

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 fever grips football fans across the globe, there’s no better way to stay immersed in the spirit of the beautiful game than through cinema. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or a casual viewer, these films celebrate the passion, drama and spirit of the sport. From Maidaa, Jhund to Bigil, here are some must-watch film on football

Updated On: 2026-06-12 05:37 PM IST

Compiled by : Aakruti Bagla

Films on football (Pics/Google Images)

Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal

Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal is a football-centric sports drama that follows the struggles of a South Asian football club in the United Kingdom. Starring John Abraham, Bipasha Basu and Arshad Warsi, the film explores themes of racism, identity and community.

Bend It Like Beckham

Bend It Like Beckham is a beloved football film that follows Jess Bhamra, a young British-Indian girl who dreams of becoming a professional footballer despite facing resistance from her traditional family. Starring Parminder Nagra and Keira Knightley, the film beautifully blends sport, culture and coming-of-age themes.

Sikandar

Sikandar is a coming-of-age drama set against the backdrop of conflict in Kashmir. Directed by Piyush Jha, the film follows a talented teenage footballer whose life takes an unexpected turn after he discovers a gun. The film stars Parzan Dastur, alongside R Madhavan and Sanjay Suri.

Penalty

Penalty is a compelling sports drama that explores football through the lens of identity, discrimination and ambition. Directed by Shubham Singh, the film follows a talented footballer from Manipur who dreams of making it big but faces prejudice and social barriers along the way.

Maidaan

Maidaan chronicles the inspiring journey of Indian football under the leadership of legendary coach Syed Abdul Rahim. Starring Ajay Devgn in the lead role, the film showcases the golden era of Indian football between the 1950s and 1960s.

Sudani from Nigeria

Written and directed by Zakariya Mohammed, Sudani from Nigeria is a heartwarming Malayalam drama that won audiences over with its emotional storytelling. The film follows Majeed, played by Soubin Shahir, a local football club manager who recruits Nigerian players for his team. When one of them, Sudu, portrayed by Samuel Abiola Robinson, suffers an injury, the two develop an unexpected bond.

Tu Hai Mera Sunday

Tu Hai Mera Sunday is a heartwarming slice-of-life film that celebrates friendship, freedom and a shared love for football. Directed by Milind Dhaimade, the story follows a group of friends in Mumbai whose weekly football matches become a cherished escape from the pressures of everyday life.

Captain

Captain is an inspiring football drama based on the life of legendary Indian footballer V. P. Sathyan. Starring Jayasurya in the lead role, the film traces Sathyan’s rise from a small-town football enthusiast to the captain of the Indian national team.

Jhund

Jhund is an inspiring sports drama based on the life of social activist and football coach Vijay Barse. Starring Amitabh Bachchan, the film follows a retired teacher who uses football to bring together underprivileged youngsters from slum communities, giving them purpose and hope.

Bigil

Bigil stars Vijay in a dual role and combines football, action and emotional drama. Directed by Atlee, the film follows Michael, a former football player who steps in as the coach of a struggling women’s football team.

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