Full Breakdown
Netflix's _The 99'ers_ Casts Emilia Jones and Alessandro Nivola
2/20/2026, 12:42:40 PM
Overview of the Film's Focus
Netflix's upcoming film _The 99'ers_ centers on the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team's historic victory in the 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup. Directed by Nicole Kassell, the film is based on Jeré Longman's 2000 book _The Girls of Summer: The U.S. Women’s Soccer Team and How It Changed the World_. It chronicles the team's journey to triumph against China in a dramatic penalty shootout, which took place in front of 93,000 fans and significantly impacted women's sports.
Key Cast and Characters
Emilia Jones has been cast as Julie Foudy, a key player who served as co-captain and later captain of the team during her 17-year tenure. Alessandro Nivola will portray Tony DiCicco, the head coach from 1994 to 1999, who led the team to its world championship title in 1999. Zoey Deutch will play Marla Messing, the pioneering soccer executive responsible for the success of the 1999 World Cup, while Emily Bader will take on the role of Mia Hamm, a star forward and striker for the team.
Production Team and Development
The screenplay for _The 99'ers_ is written by Katie Lovejoy, Dana Stevens, and Peter Hedges, with initial contributions from Jill Mazursky and Jamee Decio. The film is produced by Liza Chasin for 3Dot Productions, in collaboration with Hayley Stool and Ross Greenburg, while Marla Messing, Jill Mazursky, and Krista Smith serve as executive producers.
Broader Implications
The film not only aims to celebrate a pivotal moment in sports history but also seeks to highlight the evolution of women's sports and the barriers that have been overcome. The 1999 World Cup victory is often credited with inspiring a new generation of female athletes and increasing visibility for women's sports on a global scale.
Official Statements & Responses
While specific statements from the cast and crew have not been detailed, the film's focus on a transformative event in women's sports suggests a commitment to accurately portraying the challenges and triumphs faced by the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team.
What's Next
As _The 99'ers_ progresses through its production phases, further details regarding its release date and promotional activities are anticipated. The film is expected to resonate with audiences familiar with the 1999 World Cup and those interested in the ongoing narrative of women's empowerment in sports.
