Copa 71 - A Revolutionary Tale of Women's Soccer

Directed by: James Erskine, Rachel Ramsey  

Executive Producers: Venus Williams, Serena Williams, Alex Morgan

**Rating:** ★★★★☆

Copa 71 isn't just a documentary; it's a powerful chronicle of an event that transformed women's soccer forever. Directed by James Erskine and Rachel Ramsey, and executive produced by sports icons Venus and Serena Williams alongside soccer star Alex Morgan, this film tells the captivating story of the first unofficial women’s soccer World Cup held in 1971, a tournament that set the record for the highest attendance at a women’s sporting event in history.

Breaking Barriers On and Off the Field

Copa 71 masterfully blends interviews with archival footage and photographs to reveal the untold stories of the players who defied societal norms and institutional bans to play the sport they loved. The film showcases how, despite growing up in a world where soccer was deemed a man’s game, these women fought for their right to play.

Silvia Zaragoza from Mexico recounts playing soccer in secret to avoid punishment from her father. Elena Schiavo from Italy shares memories of fighting schoolboys who wouldn’t let her play. Carol Wilson from England chose to join the Air Force, hoping it would allow her to play football. Their stories highlight the determination and resilience needed to overcome both social and institutional barriers.

A Defiant Tournament

The documentary delves into the historical context of women's soccer, emphasizing the 1921 ban by the Football Association of England that prevented women from playing on official grounds. This ban, which lasted until 1970, was a significant hurdle. However, the 1960s saw the rise of social movements that empowered women to form soccer teams despite prevailing sentiments.

Elvira Aracén of Mexico reflects on the formation of these teams as a political act. Despite facing mockery and sexualization, these women persisted, inspired by a localized women’s tournament in Italy. Businessmen recognized the potential of a Women's World Cup, leading to the organization of Copa 71 in Mexico. Despite FIFA's threats, the tournament proceeded in some of the country’s largest arenas, defying expectations and societal norms.

Personal Stories and Shared Struggles

Copa 71 is not just about the tournament; it’s about the women who played in it. The film dedicates time to their personal stories, from humorous memories of broken-down buses to the serious fight for compensation. These recollections bring their competitive spirit to life, even 50 years later.

An underlying theme of sisterhood runs through the documentary. The women, hailing from various countries such as France, Italy, Mexico, Argentina, Denmark, and England, united over their shared passion and conviction for their right to play soccer. This bond is palpable throughout the film, highlighting their collective struggle and triumph.

A Stirring and Kinetic Tale

Copa 71 is an exhilarating and lively documentary that finally shines a spotlight on a revolutionary event in women’s sports history. It’s a stirring tale of resilience, unity, and defiance that didn’t just challenge the status quo but started a wave of change. The film is a must-watch for sports enthusiasts and anyone inspired by stories of overcoming adversity.

Verdict: A powerful and engaging documentary that celebrates the unsung heroines of women's soccer and their groundbreaking achievement in Copa 71.