The Netflix documentary titled “It’s All Over: The Kiss That Changed Spanish Football” delves into the events surrounding Spain’s 2023 World Cup victory, which was marred by controversy involving Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish football federation. The situation escalated when Rubiales kissed player Jenni Hermoso without her consent during the medal ceremony. While Rubiales claimed it was consensual, Hermoso’s account differed, leading to widespread outrage.

The documentary features reflections from key players, including Alexia Putellas, who first shared the phrase “se acabó” (“it’s all over”) on social media following the incident. It begins with players discussing the kiss and includes footage of Rubiales’ behavior after Spain’s victory over England, where he was seen making inappropriate gestures. In interviews, some players expressed their initial joy at winning but soon realized the gravity of what had transpired.

Hermoso has alleged that she faced pressure from the RFEF to publicly state that the kiss was consensual. Amanda Gutierrez, president of the players' union Futpro, revealed that Hermoso felt stressed and threatened by these demands. Other players observed her distress during their return journey from Australia and noted how she began to comprehend the ramifications of the situation.

Five days post-victory, Rubiales refused to resign during an emergency RFEF meeting despite growing backlash. Putellas described her outrage at Rubiales' attempts to defend himself while undermining Hermoso. This tension eventually led to a collective decision among 81 Spanish players, including all World Cup participants, to withdraw from playing for the national team until Rubiales stepped down.

The players' bold stance came as a call for significant reform within Spanish football. After more than two weeks of pressure and condemnation from various quarters, Rubiales resigned and subsequently received a three-year ban from all football-related activities imposed by FIFA. He faces charges for sexual assault related to his actions towards Hermoso but maintains that he is being unjustly victimized.

The documentary also highlights that issues within Spanish women’s football predate this incident. Under previous management, there were concerns regarding treatment and control over players. The narrative captures how tensions had been brewing long before their World Cup success and how this incident acted as a catalyst for change in women’s football in Spain.

In expressing solidarity with Hermoso and calling for accountability, many players have found strength in their collective voice, paving the way for future improvements in the sport.