It Was What It Was : The Football History Podcast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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