Courtesy of HBO Max
Madrid — The 2022 FIFA World Cup stands as the most-watched event in TV history, captivating an estimated 5 billion viewers. Argentina’s triumph in this epic finale of the world’s most popular sport left an indelible mark on memories worldwide. HBO Max’s recently released documentary, “Soccer Soul” (“Elijo Creer”), narrated by Ricardo Darín, brilliantly captures the ever-evolving drama of Argentina’s successful campaign.
The Moment of Triumph
The documentary opens with a defining moment of the tournament – Argentine right back Gonzalo Montiel walking slowly to the penalty spot to take the eighth kick of the penalty shoot-out climaxing the final between Argentina and France. Darín’s voiceover heightens the immediate drama, emphasizing the significance of the decision Montiel is about to make. “There are moments that leave an imprint on the memories of an era,” Darín intones. “These golden moments are made by men, sportsmen, who must make decisions which will shape their lives. The hell of defeat and the glory of triumph. Gonzalo Montiel reaches that crossroads,” he adds.
A Triumph of ‘Potrero’ Soccer
But beyond victory or defeat for Argentina, the larger narrative unfolds. Will Lionel Messi finally win the elusive trophy, securing his status as the greatest player of all time? Or will Kylian Mbappé, who already has a World Cup title under his belt, usurp his crown? The matchup also represents a clash of origins – Argentina’s ‘potrero’ soccer, played on any patch of land and characterized by improvisation and joy, against the cultured and sophisticated style associated with France.
According to Darín, Argentina’s style of play during the World Cup was a return to its soccer roots, where the players embraced the spirit of the game like children. It was a refreshing reminder that, in soccer, adults can rediscover their childlike joy. The documentary beautifully captures the passion and intensity that Argentina, both the players and the fans, brings to the world stage.
Battling the Burden of Memories
The documentary also explores the emotional burden that Messi carries – the weight of past World Cups, the memory of lost opportunities. Maradona’s indelible mark on Argentine soccer looms large, and Messi seeks to follow in his footsteps. But the road to victory is not easy, as the documentary shows. In the face of defeat against Saudi Arabia and the pressure to perform, Argentina must learn to manage their nerves and anxiety.
Messi and Scaloni: The Driving Force
The turning point for Argentina came when manager Lionel Scaloni and Messi stepped up. Scaloni’s ability to balance the physical, technical, and emotional aspects of the game played a crucial role in Argentina’s success. Meanwhile, Messi’s leadership steadied the team, and his extraordinary skills on the field were instrumental in securing victory.
Darín believes that luck and destiny are the result of hard work and a strong desire to achieve something. Even with Messi as the leader, Argentina played an exceptional World Cup, demonstrating the quality of the players and the passion that fueled both the team and the fans.
“Soccer Soul” and Argentina’s National Identity
Soccer holds a special place in Argentina’s national identity, and the passion for the game runs deep. Darín argues that soccer is a modern form of warfare, where much more is at stake than just sport. The title “Soccer Soul” perfectly captures this sentiment, representing the intense and passionate connection between Argentina and the beautiful game.
The documentary provides a multi-dimensional exploration of Argentina’s World Cup victory, covering every psychological shade of the journey. Using a depersonalized tone that adapts to each scene, the narration complements the visuals, creating a captivating viewing experience.
“Soccer Soul,” produced by GM Producciones, Tronito, Grupo Octubre, and the Argentine Football Association (AFA), resonated strongly with audiences, amassing over 454,000 admissions in Argentina alone. Through Darín’s narration, the documentary offers invaluable insights into Messi’s journey and Argentina’s triumphant campaign in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.