With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just days away, soccer fever is already sweeping the globe. Fans are decked out in their team colors, viral World Cup anthems are dominating social media, and the countdown to the opening match between host Mexico and South Africa on June 11 is almost over. But if you need something to tide you over until the first whistle, Netflix has just dropped a must-watch sports series that captures the drama, pressure, and glory of the beautiful game.
Released on May 29, 2026, Brazil '70: The Third Star is a five-episode series that chronicles the Brazilian National Team's journey to the 1970 World Cup in Mexico. For those who know their soccer history, Brazil emerged victorious that year, becoming the first nation to win the tournament three times. But the series peels back the curtain on the emotional and political struggles behind that triumph, focusing on the fears and doubts of the team's greatest icon, Pelé. It's a story that goes beyond the highlights reel, showing the human cost of competing on the world's biggest stage.
A Legend Revisited: Pelé and the 1970 Squad
Most fans associate Brazil's 1970 win with Pelé, and for good reason. After a disappointing 1962 World Cup cut short by injury and a 1966 group-stage exit, Pelé redeemed himself spectacularly, becoming the first player to win three World Cups. But Brazil '70: The Third Star digs deeper. The series opens months before the tournament, when journalist-turned-coach João Saldanha (played by Rodrigo Santoro) takes the reins. Saldanha convinces a hesitant Pelé (played by Lucas Agrícola) to return to the national team and assembles a powerhouse squad, winning them over with his tough but inspiring leadership.
However, Saldanha's outspoken criticism of Brazil's military dictatorship puts him at odds with the authorities, leading to his dismissal. In his place steps Mário Zagallo (Bruno Mazzeo), a former player with his own intense methods. The team then lands in Mexico, grappling with Zagallo's grueling training regimen and finding strength in each other. The cast also includes Gui Ferraz as Jairzinho, Daniel Blanco as Rivelino, Maicon Rodrigues as Paulo Cézar Caju, Ravel Andrade as Tostão, and Marcelo Adnet as commentator Eusébio Teixeira, among others.
Universal Themes That Resonate Beyond Soccer
While the series focuses on a specific moment in Brazilian history, its themes are universal. Over five episodes, it explores the weight of representing your country, the fear of failure, the solace of family and friends, the pain of leaving your passion behind, and the cost of speaking out against injustice. These emotions will likely echo during the 2026 World Cup, especially if it marks the final tournament for legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. For Pelé, 1970 was his last World Cup, and the series makes clear how that expectation weighed on him.
In a poignant scene from the second episode, Pelé opens up to Tostão about saying goodbye to the tournament. Tostão, who fought for his spot in the starting lineup, reminds him, "It's not just us who are feeling this right now. The World Cup is a unique moment for everyone who's here. There isn't a single person who isn't feeling the pressure." He lists off teammates like the injury-prone players, captain Carlos Alberto Torres (Caio Cabral), and Jairzinho, who had to fill Garrincha's iconic No. 7 shirt. "Everyone is feeling the weight," Tostão adds. "We carry insecurities people could never imagine. So don't bear that weight on your own. We're a team, and they need to feel like you're with them, Pelé."
For those looking to get into the World Cup spirit, Brazil '70: The Third Star is an ideal binge. It's fast-paced, steeped in '70s style, and tackles the emotional highs and lows of tournament soccer. If you're craving more sports drama, check out our Weekend Binge Guide: 3 Must-Watch Netflix Shows for June 5-7 for other picks. And if you're a fan of gripping narratives, you might also enjoy Harlan Coben's 'I Will Find You' Sets June 18 Netflix Premiere: Prison Break Meets Taken.
Whether you're a die-hard soccer fan or just love a good underdog story, this series is a perfect warm-up for the tournament ahead. It's a reminder that behind every trophy is a team of people carrying invisible burdens—and that's a story worth watching.
