MOTD: 50th anniversary

50th anniversary documentary

On Friday 22 August 2014, the television institution that is Match of the Day will celebrate half a century since it was first aired.

50 years to the very day later, this definitive documentary charts the history of this iconic programme and highlights its long-ingrained place at the heart of Saturday night Television.

We discover why Match of the Day holds such a special place in the nation’s affections with classic archive featuring George Best, Brian Clough, Sir Bobby Robson, David Coleman and Jimmy Hill and brand new contributions from Jose Mourinho, David Beckham, Sergio Aguero, Ryan Giggs, Thierry Henry, Gary Lineker, Wayne Rooney, Des Lynam, Rio Ferdinand, Ian Wright, Michael Owen, Alan Hansen, Alan Shearer, John Motson and stars from the England women’s football team.

We also hear from fans of the show including Sir Alan Sugar, Sue Johnston, Piers Morgan and Russell Brand. Barry Stoller who composed the iconic Match of the Day music talks for the very first time about how the tune came about and also went on to be officially the most recognised theme tune on Television beating EastEnders and Dr Who! There are also special performances of the music by Lethal Bizzle and the Philharmonic Orchestra.   

The show looks at how MOTD has evolved over the years, remaining the main place for football viewers to watch highlights.

We also remember how the programme dealt with tragedy, when 96 Liverpool fans lost their lives at Hillsborough.

We take a look at the elements of the show that have become synonymous with the MOTD brand like Goal of the Month and we track down serial winner of the award who became a cult hero in the ‘90s. And Sergio Aguero takes us back to the very spot he scored the most famous of last minute MOTD goals.

Full of fantastic anecdotes and the finest footballing moments of the past 50 years this documentary celebrates Match of the Day notching up its half century while continuing to set the footballing agenda amongst viewers.