Goal III: Taking on the World

Goal III follows Santiago Muñez, a Mexican forward who has carved out a name in Europe, and the tight circle of friends who stand by him. As the 2006 World Cup in Germany looms, Santiago is tapped to wear his national colors, linking him with England's Charlie Braithwaite and Liam Adams as they join their countries on footballs biggest stage. The film threads together personal loyalties, the pressure of sudden fame, and the real world grind of preparing for a month of high intensity play. It stays rooted in friendship and hard earned ambition, showing how sport can bind people across borders without leaning on flashy twists. Liam and Charlie bring their own stories from the pitch to the camp, creating tension and moments of humor as they juggle club duties with national team expectations.

Directed by Andrew Morahan and written by Piers Ashworth and Mike Jefferies, this drama is part of the Goal franchise. Made with a 10 million dollar budget, it landed in 2009 for international audiences. The film also features JJ Field and Kuno Becker in leading roles.

The film posted a remarkably small box office, grossing just 7,641 dollars worldwide against a 10 million budget, reflecting a limited release and a niche audience rather than broad commercial success across territories.

Even with modest box office, Goal III keeps the spirit of the series by highlighting a diverse cast and the global reach and culture of football. It captures the cross cultural camaraderie that makes the World Cup feel personal to fans around the world.

Critical reception was muted, with viewers noting the films focus on loyalty, perseverance, and the pressures of representing a nation. The movie foregrounds friendship and sport as a vehicle for personal growth, even when the spotlight does not shine on every scene, and it resonates with fans who value character over spectacle.