It Was What It Was : The Football History Podcast

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.

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 explore the life of Mohamed Salah - from winning his third PFA player of the year award, to the pressures and the complex political landscape he navigates in Egypt . We delve into Salah's impact in the UK, his challenging relationship with International football, from rural Egypt to the global stage, Mohamed Salah's journey is as thrilling as it is complex. Join us for an in-depth look at one of the most intriguing figures in modern football.00:00 Introduction 00:44 Mohamed Salah's Political and Cultural Significance03:01 The Complexities of Expressing Political Views05:02 Historical Context: Egypt's Political Landscape14:19 The Arab Spring and Its Aftermath24:06 Mohamed Salah's Relationship with the Egyptian National Team27:40 High Stakes in World Cup Play-offs28:35 Egypt's Football Legacy and Recent Struggles29:55 The 2018 World Cup Disappointment31:56 Controversies and Criticisms37:59 Political Pressures and Social Media44:46 Salah's Impact in the UK49:24 The Ballon d'Or and Future Prospects Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Today, co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson are joined by Ed Aarons from The Guardian to discuss the incredible journey of Mohamed Salah. With the PFA Footballer of the Year awards tonight, Salah's early life and career beginnings are explored in depth. Ed shares his research from travels to Salah's hometown in Egypt, providing unique insights into the challenges Salah faced, including the long commute for training and the support from his family. The episode covers Salah’s initial struggles, his move to Basel, and his eventual breakout that caught the attention of major clubs. Join us to learn how Salah's dedication and hard work paved the way for his renowned career.00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic: Mohamed Salah00:38 Guest Introduction: Ed Aarons00:54 Journey to Egypt: Tracing Salah's Roots01:54 Experiences in Salah's Hometown03:22 Salah's Early Life and Football Beginnings12:39 Challenges and Dedication in Salah's Youth18:40 Salah's Transition to Professional Football21:29 Cultural and Personal Insights on Salah22:11 Salah's Early Professional Struggles23:53 The Turning Point: Mastering the Art of Finishing25:09 Early Career Struggles and Breakthroughs26:33 International Recognition and Olympic Success30:10 The Tragic Event That Changed Everything31:31 The Move to Basel: Trials and Triumphs39:00 Challenges at Chelsea and the Path to Greatness44:26 Liverpool's Perfect Fit: Salah's Rise to Stardom46:25 National Team Challenges and Rivalries49:57 Legacy and Comparisons: The Greatest African Player? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of It Was What It Was, hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson explore a crucial moment in Premier League history: José Mourinho's dramatic 2015/16 season at Chelsea. They discuss Mourinho's second sacking at Chelsea and the key incidents that led to his sacking just 6 months after winning the title, including the infamous Eva Carneiro incident and clashes with players like Eden Hazard, and a turbulent pre-season tour.The episode examines how these factors contributed to a season of rapid decline, leading to Mourinho's sacking and raising questions about his methods in modern football.00:00 Introduction00:33 Reflecting on Jose Mourinho's 2015 Season01:42 The Beginning of the End: Preseason Signs06:01 The Eva Carneiro Incident14:29 Preseason Tour Troubles20:50 Early Season Struggles26:07 The Impact of the Eva Carneiro Affair27:54 Conclusion and Transition to Second Half29:04 Chelsea's Struggles Begin29:31 Tactical Changes and Player Issues30:33 Transfer Market Woes33:33 Leadership Void and Dressing Room Dynamics37:43 Marino's Public Outbursts45:57 The Final Straw: Leicester Defeat48:21 Marino's Departure and Legacy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper are joined by guest Jan Åge Fjørtoft to explore the groundbreaking transfer of Brazilian footabller Juninho to Middlesbrough in 1995. The discussion explores the players’ previous career highlights, the unique challenges they faced adjusting to English football, and the cultural impact of Juninho's arrival on the Premier League. Special focus is given to the transformational role this transfer played in attracting world-class talent to mid-level English clubs.Jan gives insightful stories and personal anecdotes surrounding how Juninho became a beloved figure at Middlesbrough and his lasting legacy in English football history.00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic01:12 Early Career and Move to Rapid Vienna02:32 Transition to English Football04:49 Joining Middlesbrough and Early Impressions13:26 The Impact of Janio's Signing16:51 Cultural Adjustments and Training Challenges19:07 Middlesbrough's Transformation and Community Connection30:28 Cultural Insights from Middlesbrough31:02 Tactical Evolution in English Football31:45 Adapting to English Football's Physicality36:23 Weather and Training Challenges40:25 The Impact of Foreign Signings50:10 Middlesbrough's Tumultuous Season59:09 Legacy of Jan Nino and the Premier League Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. In Part Two of our series on Don Revie's Leeds United, co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson explore the origins of the 'Dirty Leeds' tag. This episode delves into the notorious 1964 match against Everton that cemented the club's aggressive reputation. It discusses the reactions from fans and media, the role of football associations, and Revie's responses. Our conclusion also examines the cultural and tactical shifts in football during the 1960s and how Leeds' image became a point of controversy and unity for the team and its supporters. Tune in to uncover the complexities behind one of football's most infamous labels.Please remember to share, rate, review and comment to help It Was What It Was grow.00:00 Introduction 01:36 The Dirty Leeds Tag03:46 Don Revy's Management Style27:43 Promotion and the Great Moral Panic29:21 The Notorious Game against Everton at Goodison30:37 Media and Public Perception31:47 Football's Changing Landscape33:04 The Birth of 'Dirty Leeds'41:30 Revie's Reaction and Amplification56:04 Conclusion and Legacy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. In this episode, co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson discuss the significant impact of Don Revie on Leeds United and English football. The episode covers Revie's early career, his transition into management, and his influence on Leeds United. The narrative delves into the challenges Leeds faced before Revie's arrival, his innovative approaches, and the beginning of Leeds' transformation. This is the first part of a series exploring the legendary 'Dirty Leeds' era, their historical context, and whether they really were 'dirty' or just misunderstood. Join us for Part Two on Friday.00:00 Introduction01:03 The Controversial Reputation of Leeds United03:21 Historical Context of Leeds United04:26 The West Stand Fire and Financial Crisis06:42 Managerial Struggles and Relegation17:33 Don Revie's Appointment and Early Life26:08 Revie's Early Career and Influence of Smith28:34 Revie's Superstitions and Misfortunes35:37 Transition to Manchester City and the Revie Plan41:17 Billy Bremner's influence47:59 Revie's Managerial Beginnings at Leeds49:41 Conclusion and Teaser for the Part Two Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper bring part two into the fascinating and tragic story of Red Star Belgrade's triumphant 1991 European Cup campaign. They discuss Red Star's status as underdogs against Bayern Munich in the semifinal, their intricate path to victory amidst the backdrop of Yugoslavia's impending civil war, and the dramatic events of the legendary matches. This episode highlights not just the team's achievements on the field, but also the historical, cultural, and political context that made their victory the last moment of unity for Yugoslav football before the nation's fragmentation. Additionally, the episode covers the aftermath of the war on Red Star and the once-great football culture of the region.00:00 Introduction03:18 Quarter-Final Against Dynamo Dresden04:43 Political Tensions and the Road to the Semi-Final08:36 The Complexities of Yugoslavia's Ethnic Divisions12:36 The Semi-Final Against Bayern Munich21:13 The Dramatic Second Leg against Bayern Munich35:43 The Aftermath and Celebrations36:16 Final against Marseille 44:13 Post-Match Reflections and Legacy49:43 Impact of War on Red Star Belgrade53:48 Croatian Football's Success56:59 Conclusion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson explore the history of Red Star Belgrade, focusing on their monumental 1991 European Cup win against a backdrop of Yugoslavia's political turmoil and impending civil war. This episode explores the club's founding, cultural significance, and key players, including the dramatic escape of Miodrag Belodedici from Romania. They also detail the influence of notorious figures like Arkan and the emotional scenes in Belgrade during this turbulent time. Part Two will release on Friday.00:00 Introduction 06:19 Political Tensions and Football09:31 The Riot at Maksimir Stadium16:36 Arkan's Criminal Background25:04 Arkan's Bonkers Wedding and Return to War27:23 The Rise and Fall of Arkan29:39 Red Star Belgrade: Historical Context and Formation31:13 The Intellectual and Working-Class Roots of Red Star36:24 Red Star's European Struggles and Triumphs39:52 The Escape and Signing of Miodrag Belodedici44:32 The 1991 Season and Key Changes47:48 Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. In this episode, co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson bring their second and final part of their series on the Death Match, one of the most mythologized football games of all time. Occurring in Nazi-occupied Kyiv, Ukraine, this match between Start, a team formed mostly of former Dinamo Kiev players, and Flakelf, a Luftwaffe team, has become a symbol of resistance. The hosts discuss the brutal context of the occupation, the complex legacies of the players, and the role football played in these extraordinary historical circumstances. Jonathan Wilson critically examines how much of the narrative is based on verifiable facts and how much may have been post-war Soviet propaganda. This episode provides a nuanced understanding of how football intersected with geopolitics, resistance, and national identity during one of history's darkest periods.00:00 Introduction to the Death Match Series01:27 Historical Context: Nazi Occupation and Football02:26 The Rise of Team Start03:07 Early Matches and Growing Tensions04:21 Embarrassing Defeats for Axis Teams05:28 Public Perception and Propaganda06:29 The Turning Point: German Concerns14:13 The First Clash with Flakelf18:05 Setting the Stage for the Death Match26:06 The Referee's Influence and Game Dynamics27:10 Halftime Tensions and Orders to Lose28:39 Second Half and Controversial Moments32:35 Post-Match Arrests and Interrogations35:50 Life in the Prison Camp43:10 Escape and Kyiv's Liberation44:33 Legacy and Mythology of the Death Match 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 the harrowing tale of 'The Death Match,' a match played under Nazi occupation in Ukraine. They explore the brutal conditions faced by Ukrainian footballers, the formation of a remarkable team, and the resonances with modern-day conflicts. In Part One, learn how football resurfaced amidst atrocities, with bakery manager Yosyp Kordyk forming a team from former stars. The discussions cover the political intricacies and personal tragedies, setting the stage for the match itself.Join us for Part Two on Friday, where the details of the game itself and its far-reaching consequences are revealed.00:00 Introduction to the Yard Brigade00:26 Welcome to the Podcast00:53 The Mythologized Football Match02:44 Escape to Victory and Its Origins04:16 Introducing Joseph Cordick05:49 The Nazi Occupation of Kiev07:37 The Struggles of Mik Trivi14:21 The Fall of Kiev and Its Aftermath25:51 Ukrainian Nationalism and Football Under Nazi Occupation27:34 The Horrors of Nazi Occupation in Kyiv29:43 Football as a Means of Normalization30:32 Resistance and Brutality in Kyiv31:30 Formation of the Start Football Team33:06 The Struggles and Symbolism of Playing Football37:16 The First Match and Its Consequences39:09 The Complexities of Resistance and Collaboration49:14 The Aftermath and Public Perception51:07 Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.