Michael Fassbender Stars in Hollywood Adaptation of the Next Goal Wins (2014) Documentary About American Samoa
'Next Goal Wins' was an inspiring documentary about the struggling American Samoa National soccer team and their dreams of qualifying for the World Cup 2014 in Brazil.
The documentary was directed by Mike Brett and Steve Jamison and it's main stars are Thomas Rongen, Nicky Salapu and Jaiyah Saelua.
Rongen was the Dutch coach who had the tough task to turn the team around and build up their morale and confidence.
The documentary has now been made into a major film directed by Taika Waititi with the screenplay by Iain Morris.
Michael Fassbender stars as 'Rongen' while the other cast members are Elisabeth Moss, Kaimana, Beulah Koale, Rachel House, Uli Latukefu, Rhys Darby and Will Arnett.
American Samoa had previously suffered the worst loss in World Cup history, losing to Australia 31-0 in 2001 in their Japan / Korea 2002 Campaign However, on November 23, 2011 American Samoa recorded their second and first FIFA-recognized win!
The tiny nation had defeated Tonga 2–1 in the first round of qualifiers for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Another moment of sporting history was made November 22nd, 2011 when Jaiyah Saelua, became the first transgender player to start an officially recognised men's international football fixture.