It Was What It Was : The Football History Podcast

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. In this Christmas Special Episode, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper are joined by author John Smith to talk about his new book - 'Escape: A Love Letter to a Cult Football Classic' all about the film 'Escape to Victory'. The trio delve into the making of the film, revealing behind-the-scenes stories, discussing the film's historical context, and analysing the football sequences. We take a look at inside stories from the remarkable cast and crew, including Pele and Sylvester Stallone. The three discuss amusing anecdotes, the authenticity of the football matches and the film's lasting impact. This episode is a must-listen for fans of film and football history. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas from the It Was What It Was team!00:00 Introduction and Welcoming John Smith04:41 The Making of 'Escape to Victory'20:44 Historical Resonances and Themes28:59 Behind the Scenes Stories34:09 The Escape Plan in the Film37:11 The Cast and Their Connections41:36 The Missing Footballer Mystery46:01 Lack of Female Characters47:06 The Football Game Analysis53:19 The Half-Time Escape Plan58:00 The Final Match Moments01:06:13 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper delve into George Orwell's infamous essay on sport, specifically focusing on Dinamo Moscow's 1945 tour of Britain. They explore Orwell's controversial viewpoint that serious sport is akin to 'war minus the shooting,' and delve into the historical and political context of this post-WWII football tour. The discussion covers the tactical innovations introduced by the Soviet team, the media and public's reaction, and the broader implications for international sport and politics. This episode provides an in-depth look at how football can both unite and divide, reflecting on Orwell's critique and its relevance to today's sports culture.00:00 Introduction: The Dark Side of Sports01:05 George Orwell's Influence on Sports01:49 The Political Context of the 1945 Moscow Tour02:47 The Goodwill Tour: Ideals vs. Reality05:00 The Soviet Union's Football Strategy08:23 The Arrival of Dinamo Moscow21:45 The First Match: Dinamo Moscow vs Chelsea30:53 The Political Showdown: Arsenal vs Dinamo Moscow32:31 The Final Game in Scotland35:56 Soviet Propaganda and the Legacy of the Tour40:36 Tactical Innovations and English Football's Response47:36 George Orwell's Critique of Sport53:18 Football's Role in Nationalism and International Relations01:00:51 Concluding Thoughts on Orwell and Football Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper are joined by special guest and historian David Goldblatt. In this episode, they discuss David's new book, 'Injury Time,' which examines the impact of recent seismic events like Brexit, COVID-19, and populism on football in Britain. They delve into the popularity of football despite its numerous challenges, the economic disparities within the game, and the global obsession with the Premier League. The conversation also touches on the significance of football as a cultural and political space, the rise of women's football, and the ethical concerns surrounding state ownership of clubs. They also examine the role of fans and community. This episode provides a comprehensive look at the current state and the future of the beautiful game.00:00 Introduction 00:55 The State of Football Today03:21 Football as a National Obsession07:41 Globalisation and Football's Cultural Impact19:12 Economic Disparities in Football21:35 Football Reflecting Social Inequalities29:50 Football's Role in Social and Political Issues31:20 The Role of Football in Society33:38 Economic Inequality in Football36:50 The Super League Controversy41:25 Cultural Resistance and Football's Future54:42 The Impact of COVID on Football59:20 State Involvement in Football01:02:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper look into the dark and controversial period of Streltsov’s life. In this second part we cover the heinous crime that Streltsov was accused of, the subsequent trial and conviction, and his years in the Gulag. Despite the damning evidence, Streltsov's eventual return to football and continued popularity are explored, along with the societal implications and unresolved questions surrounding his story. Join us for a detailed look at both the fall and unexpected resurgence of a man once considered the 'Russian Pele.’This episode contains discussion of sexual abuse and rape, which some listeners may find distressing. If you’ve been affected by any of the issues raised, the NHS provides a list of support services and resources here:https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/help-after-rape-and-sexual-assault00:00 A Dark Story Unfolds00:31 The Accusation and Confession04:50 The Aftermath and Public Reaction05:40 Evidence and Forensic Details07:05 The State's Role 08:22 Personal Struggles and Downfall23:42 Speculations and Suspicions26:14 The Case Against Streltsov28:14 The Soviet State's Role30:31 Marina's Disappearance32:08 Life in the Gulag40:15 Streltsov’s Return to Football48:21 Legacy and Controversy52:06 Conclusion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper delve into the story of Eduard Streltsov, the 'Russian Pele'. In the first part of this two-part series, we trace Streltsov's meteoric rise from a poor upbringing to becoming a celebrated football talent. Witness his groundbreaking performances, his early brush with fame, and the personal flaws that began to unravel his career. Discover the events leading up to the fateful allegations that would ultimately tarnish his legacy. Join us as we unveil the complexities and the promises cut short in the life of one of Soviet football's most enigmatic figures.This episode contains discussion of sexual abuse and rape, which some listeners may find distressing. If you’ve been affected by any of the issues raised, the NHS provides a list of support services and resources here:https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/help-after-rape-and-sexual-assault00:00 Introduction03:38 The Soviet Football Landscape in the 1950s09:35 Streltsov's Early Life and Family Background16:31 Streltsov's Football Career Takes Off20:40 The 1956 Olympics and Missed Opportunities25:17 The Medal That Never Was27:01 The Downfall Begins30:37 A Pattern of Trouble49:50 Streltsov's Arrest50:12 Confession and Public Outcry Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper continue the extraordinary story of Imre Hirschl, the Hungarian who revolutionised South American football. In this second part, we look into Hirschl's impact on Uruguay's historic 1950 World Cup victory and his innovative tactics at Club Atlético Peñarol and River Plate. Discover how Hirschl's genius and controversial methods shaped football history, transforming teams and leaving a lasting legacy on the footballing world. 00:45 The Tactical Mastermind Behind Uruguay's Success01:55 Controversial Matches and Referee Decisions05:20 The Dominance of the Big Five in Argentinian Football08:37 Hirschl's move to River Plate 11:59 Tactical Evolution and Direct Play16:55 Hircshl’s Downfall and Match-Fixing Allegations21:06 Return to Coaching and Success in Uruguay28:22 Strict Discipline and Unique Methods29:09 Young Players and Team Dynamics31:14 Campaign for National Coach31:59 Political Disputes and Appointments33:22 World Cup Preparations and Chaos35:43 Uruguay's Tactical Genius37:11 The Shocking World Cup Final43:48 Aftermath and Legacy44:58 Hirschl's Influence and Final Years Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper deep dive into the extraordinary story of Imre Hirschl, the Hungarian who took South American football by storm. In this first part of a two-part series we hear the story of Hirschl's early life, his emigration to South America, and his unexpected rise to coaching fame in Argentina. From starting as a salami salesman to becoming the mastermind behind Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata's success, Hirschl's tale is one of perseverance, innovation, and tactical genius. Tune in to discover the myths, challenges, and triumphs of this unlikely football legend who redefined the game during the early 20th century.00:00 The Unlikely Beginnings of a Coaching Legend03:46 The Hungarian Influence on South American Football07:59 Unraveling the Myths and Realities09:40 A Journey Through War and Immigration16:29 The Butcher Turned Football Visionary21:55 The Mystery of Hirschl's Football Career24:38 Meeting Béla Guttmann and the Next Chapter26:21 Hirschl's Coaching Journey Begins28:14 Tactical Innovations and Success30:21 Challenges and Triumphs in Argentina31:14 Early Coaching Stint in Brazil32:42 Struggles and Determination42:21 Hirschl's Coaching Philosophy46:48 Building a Winning Team49:32 Conclusion and Future Prospects Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. In this second part on data in football, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper continue their exploration into how data analytics transformed modern football. This episode delves into Liverpool's remarkable journey using data and how it helped them to win the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020. We take a look at the story behind key figures like Ian Graham and Michael Edwards, exploring their early skepticism, the challenges they faced, and the groundbreaking decisions that followed. Discover how Liverpool's recruitment strategy evolved with data, featuring key transfers such as Sadio Mané, Mohamed Salah, and Andy Robertson. Discover the tensions and synergies between data-driven decisions and traditional football instincts that reshaped Liverpool and influenced their remarkable success under Jürgen Klopp.00:44 The Role of Data in Football02:00 Key Figures: Ian Graham and Michael Edwards03:17 Michael Edwards' Journey07:18 Early Skepticism and Challenges12:39 Liverpool's Data Revolution14:54 Transfer Market Strategies18:35 Cultural Clashes and Successes26:24 Ian Graham's Role in Liverpool's Data Revolution27:42 The Transfer Committee's Struggles and Criticisms30:23 Jurgen Klopp's Introduction to Data Analytics35:49 The Impact of Data on Key Signings42:12 The Evolution and Challenges of Data-Driven Decisions44:43 The Future of Data in Football51:47 Conclusion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper are joined by journalist, broadcaster and author of 'Expected Goals: The story of how data conquered football and changed the game' Rory Smith. In today’s episode we explore the fascinating journey of data analytics in football. From the early days of Charles Reep and Valeriy Lobanovskyi's basic data collection to the revolutionary 1990s that saw a surge in clubs like Liverpool using a data-driven approach under Ian Graham and Michael Edwards to lead to Premier League success. We also look at how clubs like Bolton Wanderers under Sam Allardyce leveraged data to gain a competitive edge and and the cultural shift towards data in football management. Tune in to understand how data played a crucial role in some of the greatest footballing successes of the modern era.00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Rory Smith00:42 The Evolution of Data in Football01:29 The Role of Data Collectors05:04 Prozone and Early Data Pioneers11:17 The Culture War: Nerds vs. Scouts12:17 Sam Allardyce: The Unlikely Data Advocate23:32 Moneyball and Its Impact on Football27:24 Decision Technology and Early Predictions28:06 The Role of Data in Football Predictions28:48 The Fink Tank Column and Its Impact31:09 Spurs' Missed Opportunity with Data32:56 Tottenham's Early Adoption of Data Analytics41:11 Liverpool's Data-Driven Transformation47:10 The Cultural Shift Towards Data in Football58:44 The Importance of Communication in Data Utilisation59:45 Conclusion  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. In this second episode of a two-part special, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper continue their exploration of Lionel Messi's early years, focusing on his journey from 2005 to the cusp of greatness in 2008. This episode delves into pivotal moments such as Messi's breakthrough in Barcelona's first team, his dramatic red card on his Argentina debut, and his developing relationship with key figures like Ronaldinho. We take a look at Messi's significant impact in the Joan Gamper Trophy, his hat-trick against Real Madrid in the El Clásico, and his stunning solo goal against Getafe. The episode also sheds light on the internal struggles and political tensions within Argentina's national team during the 2006 World Cup, and the influence of Barcelona's management in shaping Messi's career path. Join us as explore the trials and triumphs that shaped Messi into one of football's greatest ever.00:00 Introduction: Messi's Early Brilliance00:40 Messi's Breakthrough in 200501:23 Homesickness04:00 Argentina Debut: A Rocky Start09:25 Barcelona's Dilemma11:31 Rising Star: The Joan Gamper Trophy13:52 Contract Negotiations and Transfer Rumors17:34 Messi's Impact in La Liga and Champions League25:29 Messi's Diet and Lifestyle Concerns26:11 Injury Setback and Return to Training27:26 Champions League Final Disappointment31:22 World Cup 2006: Argentina's Journey36:07 Quarter-Final Clash with Germany42:25 Barcelona's Decline and Messi's Rise46:57 Ronaldinho's Influence and Messi's Future49:10 Conclusion and Future Prospects Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson delve into Lionel Messi's early years at Barcelona and his rise to stardom. They explore Messi's journey from his initial signing to the club in 2000 to the early recognition of his talent by notable figures like Ronaldinho. The episode highlights Messi's challenges, including his growth hormone treatment and cultural adjustments as a young Argentine in Spain. Key moments such as his interactions with future stars like Gerard Piqué, Cesc Fàbregas, as well as his significant contributions to Barcelona's youth and first teams, which are discussed in detail. This episode covers his early setbacks, first team debut, and eventual triumphs, culminating in his standout performance at the 2005 FIFA U20 World Cup. Join us as we uncover how Messi went from a promising youngster to an emerging superstar at Barcelona. 00:00 Introduction to the episode 00:40 Messi's Signing and Initial Challenges01:15 Settling in Barcelona: Cultural and Personal Struggles05:51 Integration and Early Successes20:40 Political Chaos and Youth Team Dynamics23:33 Messi's Rising Star and International Attention27:06 First Impressions and Early Training27:39 Debut and Initial Reactions29:37 Contract Negotiations and Adjustments32:48 National Team Dilemmas38:31 Integration into Barcelona's First Team46:27 Under-20 World Cup and Rising Stardom51:18 Conclusion and Looking Ahead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of It Was What It Was, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper delve into the decline of Nottingham Forest following their European Cup victories. This final part of a four-part special looks at the financial turmoil, management struggles, and internal conflicts that marked the club's subsequent years. Join us as we discuss how the relationship between Brian Clough and Peter Taylor deteriorated, the club’s misjudged transfers, and the impact of Clough's growing dependence on alcohol. From the fallouts to the poignant departures, this episode covers the unraveling of a once-glorious team and the tragedy of a fractured partnership.00:00 Financial Woes and Disappointment00:50 The Decline Begins02:32 Unraveling Behind the Scenes04:18 Transfer Turmoil09:24 Clough and Taylor's Strained Relationship14:11 Financial Scandals and Internal Strife18:05 The Breaking Point29:03 Clough's Controversial Decisions32:24 Financial Struggles and Player Transfers37:18 Clough's Health and Alcohol Issues45:02 The Breakup with Peter Taylor48:20 Reflecting on Clough and Taylor's Legacy51:29 Clough's Changing Management Style53:43 The Greatest Achievement in European Football55:28 Conclusion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of It Was What It Was, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper continue the story of Brian Clough’s Nottingham Forest, following on from their European Cup victory in the last episode. This third part of a four-part special covers the 1979-80 season, looking at how Forest overcame obstacles both on and off the pitch to claim their second successive European Cup. Within the season there are some highs and lows, from overcoming unexpected challenges, and navigating crucial European fixtures to dealing with internal instability and controversial management methods. From high-profile transfers to unforgettable European nights, tune in to discover how this extraordinary team went on to write another chapter in their illustrious history.00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene01:03 Nottingham Forest's European Campaign Begins01:28 Key Transfers and Management Decisions07:47 Unexpected Challenges and Controversies20:31 European Cup Quarter-Finals 28:52 The Importance of Team Camaraderie30:19 Challenges and Strategies in European Matches32:38 Player Management and Injuries36:23 Prepping for the European Cup Final42:49 The Final Match Against Hamburg51:03 Post-Match Reflections and Legacy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of It Was What It Was, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper continue their deep dive into Brian Clough's transformative tenure at Nottingham Forest. This second part of a four-part special, captures the thrilling journey as Forest ventures into the European Cup, starting from their incredible 5-1 victory over AEK Athens and leading up to their historic final against Malmö. Expect to hear detailed anecdotes and insights revealing Clough's unique management style, key matches and significant strategic decisions, including the controversial but ultimately successful signing of Trevor Francis for a British record fee. Join us to explore how a team from the second division ascended to the pinnacle of European football. 00:28 Introduction to Nottingham Forest's European Journey01:26 Forest's Rise to European Dominance01:46 The Quest for the European Cup03:36 Strategic Moves and Key Decisions10:02 Facing Liverpool in the European Cup12:42 The Tactical Genius of Clough and Taylor26:17 The Aftermath and Moving Forward26:38 Unbeaten Streak and Chairman Change27:35 European Cup Drama: Forest vs. AEK Athens28:19 Clough's Management Style and Larry Lloyd Incident30:55 Training Anecdotes and Managerial Hypocrisy37:39 Trevor Francis Joins Forest40:51 League Cup Final and European Cup Quarter-Finals42:25 Semi-Final Showdown Against Cologne48:37 European Cup Final Against Malmö55:27 Forest Crowned European Champions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper set the stage for Brian Clough’s remarkable journey to becoming manager of Nottingham Forest in this first part of a four-part-special. After his departure from Leeds, Clough takes on the challenge of revitalising a mid-table second division team into a team that dominates English and European football. Clough's reunion with assistant Peter Taylor plays a pivotal role as they sign key players like Peter Shilton and Kenny Burns. This episode looks at the early challenges faced, strategic player signings, and the pivotal moments that laid the groundwork for Nottingham Forest's incredible achievements. Join us as we set the stage for one of football's most astonishing success stories.01:09 The Rise and Fall of Brian Clough08:30 Clough's Early Struggles at Nottingham Forest21:03 Clough's Confrontational Style24:44 Building the Foundation for Success27:07 The Clough-Taylor Partnership27:39 Taylor's Reluctance and Reconciliation28:52 Building a Winning Team31:16 The Anglo-Scottish Cup Victory33:37 Promotion to the Top Flight34:43 Strengthening the Squad36:33 Clough's England Manager Candidacy42:11 A Defensive Strategy for Success46:46 Winning the League and Beyond52:15 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson delve into Manchester United’s 1985-86 season - a campaign filled with promise, passion, and ultimately, heartbreak.A year that began with soaring hopes and a record-breaking unbeaten run, unravels in a whirlwind of injuries, off-field drama, and missed opportunities. We’ll explore the highs and lows of Ron Atkinson’s final full season in charge, from the electric atmosphere at Old Trafford to the heartbreak of falling short in the title race. Expect in-depth analysis of key matches, player performances, and the pivotal moments that defined the season as Rob and Jonathan relive the excitement, the agony, and the legacy of 1985-86.00:29 – The 1985-86 Season: High Hopes and Early Promise01:49 – Ron Atkinson’s Arrival and United’s Managerial History04:38 – The Big Ron Era: Style, Successes, and Setbacks08:41 – The Bryan Robson Factor: United’s Dependence13:23 – Squad Building, Transfers, and Team Dynamics17:13 – Cup Runs, League Frustrations, and Dressing Room Drama24:50 – The State of English Football in the Mid-80s25:59 – The 1985-86 Season Kicks Off27:50 – United’s Record-Breaking Start32:41 – The Winning Streak and Early League Dominance39:13 – Injuries, Draws, and the Beginning of the Decline43:34 – Mark Hughes’ Transfer Saga and Off-Field Turmoil47:03 – The Drinking Culture and Its Impact49:43 – The Collapse: Losing Form and the Title54:56 – The End of the Atkinson Era59:18 – The Arrival of Sir Alex Ferguson & Reflections Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast hosted by Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper. In this second episode of a two-part special, we delve into the pivotal moments that lifted the 50-year ban on women's football in England. From the formation of the Women’s Football Association, to looking at the birth of the Lionesses and their first official international match. This episode looks at the pioneering women and their allies who revived the game in the 1960s, building grassroots clubs, fighting for recognition to pave the way for women’s football today. Tune in to hear all about the history of the women’s game.00:00 The End of the Ban00:28 Picking Up the Pieces: Women’s Football After the Ban00:53 The 1960s Revival: Grassroots and New Teams03:10 The Impact of England’s 1966 World Cup Win07:54 Building a Movement: Key Figures and Early Clubs10:56 Struggles for Facilities and Recognition12:50 International Influence21:22 The Formation of the Women’s Football Association24:32 The FA’s Changing Attitude and Official Recognition27:20 The First Women’s FA Cup and International Competitions29:40 Tensions: Unofficial vs. Official Tournaments36:52 The Lost Lionesses: Mexico 1971 and Unrecognised Pioneers40:26 The First Official Lionesses Game: Scotland vs. England, 197245:44 Media Coverage and Social Attitudes47:44 Timeline: From the First Match to Modern Success50:08 Reflections: The Legacy of the Pioneers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to another episode of It Was What It Was with hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper as they delve into the history of The Lionesses and the true story behind the first ever women's Euros. This episode explores the struggles and triumphs of women's football, from the controversial FA ban in 1921, to England's historic victory in the 2025 Euros. Rob and Jonathan look into the pioneering efforts of teams like the Dick, Kerr Ladies and the Manchester Corinthians, looking at how women's football overcame a 50-year ban to shine on the world stage. Join us as we uncover the groundbreaking stories and resilient pioneers behind this incredible journey through a century of women's football history.00:00 Introduction: Girls and Football00:51 The Ban on Women's Football01:37 The Struggle and Triumph of Women's Football03:02 The Dick, Kerr Ladies and Their Legacy04:22 The Impact of the FA Ban07:00 International Tours and Recognition12:59 Manchester Corinthians: A New Hope18:34 Cultural Contrasts in Women's Football20:48 The First Women's Euros: A Hidden History22:10 The Rise and Fall of the International Ladies Football Association26:21 Manchester Corinthians: Pioneers of Women's Football32:21 Missed Opportunities and Reflections38:44 Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper welcome special guest Euan Flynn, author of 'When the Year Ends in One,' to discuss Tottenham Hotspur's momentous 1990-91 season. The episode delves into Paul Gascoigne's tearful departure due to a career-threatening injury during the FA Cup final and the financial turmoil facing the club, which saw a potential world-record transfer deal collapse. The podcast covers the epic highs and disastrous lows of that pivotal season, from Gascoigne's mesmerizing FA Cup run to the behind-the-scenes financial entanglements involving Irving Scholar and the club's eventual acquisition by Alan Sugar. Tune in for an in-depth look at how this season had ramifications far beyond the football pitch.00:00 Gascoigne's Injury and Tottenham's Financial Crisis00:37 Introduction to the Special Episode01:41 The Pivotal 1990-91 Season02:19 Tottenham's Financial Woes and Ownership Issues04:03 The Year Ending in One: A Superstition Explained05:21 Gascoigne's Meteoric Rise and Media Frenzy08:02 The Illusion of a Title Challenge10:18 Irving Scholar's Takeover and Financial Missteps21:13 The Culture and Discipline at Tottenham23:46 The FA Cup Run Begins31:36 The Pressure on Young Athletes32:28 The Semifinal at Wembley34:00 Venables and the Mysterious Financier40:34 The FA Cup Final Build-Up47:23 The Dramatic FA Cup Final54:36 The Aftermath and Legacy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast.This week co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson delve into the life of OrestesCorbatta, a legendary Argentine footballer whose story combines brilliance and tragedy. Known for his dazzling dribbling skills and audacious playstyle, Corbatta played a crucial role in Argentina's 1957 Campeonato Sudamericano win. However, despite his football genius, Corbatta's life was marred by alcoholism and personal struggles.The episode explores his rise from a rural town to becoming a national icon, his struggles with illiteracy, and the personal traumas that impacted his career. Draper and Wilson also discuss the broader significance of Corbatta's style in the context of Argentine football, drawing parallels to legends like Maradona and Messi.Join us as we remember the poetic yet tragic life of Omar Orestes Corbatta, a player whose legacy continues to influence Argentine football today.00:00 Introduction 01:31 The Significance of the 1957 Campeonato Sudamericano04:39 The Evolution of Argentinian Football09:34 The Five Simbas and Their Impact16:08 The Role of Radio in Argentinian Football Culture19:31 The Decline and Shift in Argentinian Football23:42 The Duality of Argentinian Football: Beauty and Cynicism26:15 The Tragic Figure of Coba27:25 Early Life and Struggles29:49 Rise to Fame and Personal Challenges33:50 The Decline Begins38:46 Final Years and Legacy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.