Goal

Goal

Year: 2004

Runtime: 16 mins

Language: Spanish

Director: Germán Tejeira

Drama

Two former crime partners reunite: one freshly released from prison seeks a new job, while the other now runs a respectable business. Their meeting occurs in a bar as Peñarol contests the 1987 Copa Libertadores final, providing a tense backdrop for their conversation.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Goal (2004)

Trace every key event in Goal (2004) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Santiago's departure for a Newcastle trial

Santiago prepares to chase a pro football career in England after Glen Foy arranges a trial. He saves every penny from his gardening and busboy work to fund the trip, while his grandmother Mercedes secretly provides money to depart. His father Hernan is dismissive of his dream and even steals money to fund his own business ventures.

Pre-departure Los Angeles, USA
2

Arrival in Newcastle and the start of the trial

Upon arriving in Newcastle, Santiago moves in with Glen Foy and begins training with Newcastle United. He faces a tough, muddy training environment and pressure from a stubborn teammate, Hughie McGowan, during a trial match. The club's manager Erik Dornhelm agrees to extend the trial to a month at Glen's request.

Upon arrival Newcastle, England
3

A month-long trial is agreed

Despite the rough start, manager Erik Dornhelm agrees to a month-long trial to give Santiago a real chance. The extended period lets him adapt to English football and prove his talent.

During the trial Newcastle United training ground
4

Medical and a risky deception

During a medical examination, Santiago lies about having asthma to nurse Roz Harmison, fearing the truth would jeopardize his chances. The ruse buys him a one-month contract to remain with the club.

During medical Newcastle United training ground / medical
5

Hughie bullying and a budding ally

Santiago endures bullying from Hughie McGowan but begins to form a friendship with fellow trialist Jamie Drew. The reserve setup becomes his testing ground as he adapts to the pace and physicality of English football.

Early trial period Reserve team environment, Newcastle United
6

Inhaler incident and the danger of failure

Before a reserve match, Santiago attempts to use his inhaler but Hughie destroys it, triggering an asthma flare. The incident jeopardizes his chances as the club warns he must seek proper treatment.

End of the trial Reserve match venue, Newcastle
7

Gavin Harris arrives; new ally and roommate

On the way to the airport for a trip, Santiago's taxi picks up the newly joined Gavin Harris. Gavin’s talent and rebellious streak lead to a surprising friendship, and Santiago ends up sharing a home with him while he tackles his asthma.

Gavin's arrival and onboarding Newcastle, England
8

Impressive reserves and first-team debut

After impressive performances in the reserves, Santiago earns a chance in the first team and makes his debut as a substitute against Fulham. He earns a penalty that helps Newcastle win, a moment his father Hernan watches on TV.

Season debut St James' Park, Newcastle
9

Selfishness critique and a tabloid misstep

Erik Dornhelm criticizes Santiago for being too selfish on the pitch and urges him to pass more. That night, Santiago and Gavin go out celebrating, and a drunken photo ends up in The Sun, angering the manager.

After debut Newcastle city, night
10

Jamie injury and Hernan's death

Shortly after the party, Jamie suffers a career-ending injury, and Hernan dies suddenly of a heart attack. The double blow tests Santiago's resolve and his plans to return home.

Shortly after party Training ground / home, Newcastle
11

Roz bond and choosing to stay

Santiago begins a relationship with Roz Harmison, and a late-night talk helps persuade him to stay and continue pursuing his dream. Erik then informs him that he has been selected for the season's final game against Liverpool.

Pre-final game Newcastle, with Roz
12

Final game prep against Liverpool

Erik confirms Santiago will start the season-ending match against Liverpool, a game with the Champions League final looming for Liverpool in ten days. The stakes are high as Newcastle seeks a win to keep European hopes alive.

Before final game St James' Park, Newcastle
13

Final game: late drama and a winning goal

Newcastle takes an early lead, but Liverpool quickly overturns it, setting up a dramatic finish. In the dying minutes, Santiago assists Gavin for an equalizer, then scores the winner from a pass by Gavin to seal a 3-2 victory and a place in next season's Champions League.

Injury time St James' Park, Newcastle
14

Liverpool qualifies for CL; season ends

Although Newcastle clinches a win, Liverpool later secures a spot in the Champions League by beating AC Milan, underscoring the season’s parity. The result still marks a personal triumph for Santiago and his club.

After final game Global football context
15

Mercedes informs Santiago of his father's watch

After the match, Glen relays a call from Mercedes informing Santiago that his father watched the Fulham game. The moment ties his LA-to-Newcastle journey to a family's support and pride.

Post-match On/near St James' Park

Last Updated: October 09, 2025 at 15:21

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Narrative Summary

The narrative pattern revolves around the protagonist's arc, often triggered by a goal or a personal conflict. The pacing is steady, allowing time to explore emotional setbacks and small victories. External events, like sports matches, often serve as a backdrop for internal change.

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Unlock the Full Story of Goal

Don't stop at just watching — explore Goal in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Goal is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Goal Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Goal, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Goal Summary

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Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Goal. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Goal

Goal Spoiler-Free Summary

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Goal Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Goal

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More About Goal