Watch 30 for 30: Soccer Stories

30 for 30: Soccer Stories is a collection of eight documentaries produced by ESPN Films that delve into the rich history of soccer and its influence on culture and society. Hosted by Ray Van Ness III, each film explores a different aspect of soccer, from the 1980s New York Cosmos to the remarkable legacy of Brazilian soccer legend, Pelé.

Narrated by actor Edward Norton, the first episode, "Hillsborough," tells the tragic story of the 1989 Hillsborough Stadium disaster in Sheffield, England, where 96 Liverpool fans were crushed to death during an FA Cup semifinal. The documentary explores the causes of the tragedy and the subsequent police cover-up, which led to a 27-year-long fight for justice by the victims' families.

The second episode, "Maradona '86," examines the 1986 FIFA World Cup and the iconic performance of Argentinean superstar Diego Maradona, who led his team to victory by scoring one of the most famous goals in soccer history, known as the "Hand of God." The documentary charts Maradona's journey to the tournament and the political turmoil in Argentina at the time that shaped his legacy.

The third episode, "The Myth of Garrincha," tells the story of Brazilian soccer star Garrincha, who overcame physical disabilities to become one of the most gifted players of his generation. The documentary explores the myth around Garrincha's life and career and how he became a symbol of Brazilian soccer's irrepressible spirit.

The fourth episode, "Ceasefire Massacre," is a powerful documentary about the impact of the Troubles in Northern Ireland on the world of soccer. The film tells the story of the 1994 Loughinisland massacre when two gunmen entered a pub in a small Northern Irish village and opened fire on a crowd watching the World Cup. The documentary explores the impact of the tragedy on the community and the role of soccer in uniting people across religious and political divides.

The fifth episode, "The Two Escobars," is a gripping tale of soccer, drug cartels, and political corruption in Colombia. The film explores the parallel lives of Andrés Escobar, a gifted soccer player who was assassinated in the aftermath of the 1994 World Cup, and Pablo Escobar, the notorious drug lord who ruled Colombia with an iron fist. The documentary investigates the connections between the two men and their tragic fate.

The sixth episode, "Mysteries of the Rimet Trophy," is a thrilling mystery that explores the history of the FIFA World Cup trophy. The documentary traces the trail of the trophy from its creation in 1930 to its mysterious disappearance in 1983, and its eventual recovery in the rubbish bin of a rundown neighborhood. The film explores the various theories about the theft and the cultural significance of the trophy.

The seventh episode, "Barbosa - The Man Who Made Brazil Cry," tells the story of Moacir Barbosa, the Brazilian goalkeeper who was blamed for Brazil's defeat in the 1950 World Cup final. The documentary explores the cultural and racial implications of the defeat and its impact on Brazilian society. The film investigates the life of Barbosa and the prejudice that he faced as a Brazilian of African descent.

Lastly, the eighth episode, "Garrincha and Pelé," celebrates two of Brazil's greatest soccer heroes, Garrincha and Pelé. The documentary explores the lives and careers of these two men who represented the very best of Brazilian soccer. The film charts their rise to fame and their enduring legacy in Brazilian and world soccer.

Overall, 30 for 30: Soccer Stories is a magnificent collection of documentaries that capture the history and culture of soccer. Hosted by Ray Van Ness III and narrated by Edward Norton, the series explores the great sporting moments, as well as the tragedies and controversies that have shaped the game. The films offer compelling insights into the social, political, and cultural significance of soccer and its enduring appeal around the world.