Welcome back to It Was What it Was, the football history podcast. In the final episode of our four-part special on the NASL, co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson delve into the decline and eventual collapse of the league. From financial instability, over-expansion, and missed opportunities, to the controversial business decisions and the rise of indoor soccer. This episode covers the myriad of factors that led to the NASL's downfall. Explore the final turbulent years, the impact on US Soccer, and the lessons learned from one of football's most intriguing leagues.
00:00 Introduction to the NASL and Its Peak
02:08 The Decline Begins: Post-Pele Era
05:36 Celebrity Owners and Financial Woes
09:01 The Cosmos' Dominance and League Format Issues
19:21 Franchise Movements and Player Strikes
29:03 The Beginning of the End: Financial Losses and Decline
36:13 Ownership Disputes and Relocations
37:53 Franchise Failures and Player Movements
43:34 NASL's Struggles and FIFA's Ultimatum
44:28 The Final Collapse of NASL
55:18 Failed Experiments and Indoor Soccer
01:01:49 The End of NASL and Its Legacy
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