It Was What It Was : The Football History Podcast

• The Cold War Classico: George Orwell on Dinamo Moscow, Arsenal & Chelsea

  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.

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• British Society: Through The Lens of Football

  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.

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• The Russian Pele: The Scandal of Eduard Streltsov | Part Two

  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.

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• The Russian Pele: The Scandal of Eduard Streltsov | Part One

  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.

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• Imre Hirschl: The Hungarian Trailblazer of South American Football | Part Two

  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.

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