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 Legend
03:46 The Hungarian Influence on South American Football
07:59 Unraveling the Myths and Realities
09:40 A Journey Through War and Immigration
16:29 The Butcher Turned Football Visionary
21:55 The Mystery of Hirschl's Football Career
24:38 Meeting Béla Guttmann and the Next Chapter
26:21 Hirschl's Coaching Journey Begins
28:14 Tactical Innovations and Success
30:21 Challenges and Triumphs in Argentina
31:14 Early Coaching Stint in Brazil
32:42 Struggles and Determination
42:21 Hirschl's Coaching Philosophy
46:48 Building a Winning Team
49:32 Conclusion and Future Prospects
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