Brandi Chastain, the iconic U.S. women’s soccer player, was left in awe as she watched footage of the 1971 Women’s World Cup in Mexico City and Guadalajara for the first time. The tournament, captured beautifully on film that had been unseen for fifty years, showcased the incredible talent and passion of female athletes in a time when women’s soccer was not widely recognized.
Directed by Rachel Ramsay and James Erskine, “Copa 71” sheds light on the all-but-forgotten event that took place during a time of increasing activism for women’s rights. Despite facing cultural pressures and opposition from FIFA, the governing body of men’s soccer at the time, these pioneering women simply wanted to play the sport they loved.
The documentary features interviews with athletes who participated in the tournament, offering reflections on their experiences and the significance of their involvement. Their stories, combined with footage of packed stadiums filled with cheering fans, paint a picture of a moment in history that was both exhilarating and groundbreaking.
Like the Oscar-winning documentary “Summer of Soul,” “Copa 71” highlights the importance of preserving history through film. The discovery of this footage from the 1971 Women’s World Cup not only provides a glimpse into the past but also raises questions about what other hidden gems of history may be waiting to be uncovered.
As viewers watch “Copa 71,” they are not only treated to a captivating sports documentary but also reminded of the power of recording history for future generations. The film serves as a tribute to the trailblazing women who paved the way for future generations of female athletes and a reminder of the progress that has been made in the world of women’s soccer.
