It Was What It Was : The Football History Podcast

The Overlap
  • 5.0 (120)
  • SOCCER
  • UPDATED DAILY

Welcome to The Overlap's football history podcast, It Was What It Was. Each week Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper will be talking about the key episodes in football history that have shaped the footballing world. The show will be discussing the best stories from football's past, giving insights to the personalities involved. the tales from behind the scenes and the impact they left. Join us at Football University! If you enjoy the podcast please hit subscribe to never miss an episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 1D AGO

    Escape to Victory: The Cult Classic with Pele, Bobby Moore and Sylvester Stallone | Christmas Special

    Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. In this Christmas Special Episode, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper are joined by author John Smith to talk about his new book - 'Escape: A Love Letter to a Cult Football Classic' all about the film 'Escape to Victory'. The trio delve into the making of the film, revealing behind-the-scenes stories, discussing the film's historical context, and analysing the football sequences. We take a look at inside stories from the remarkable cast and crew, including Pele and Sylvester Stallone. The three discuss amusing anecdotes, the authenticity of the football matches and the film's lasting impact. This episode is a must-listen for fans of film and football history. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas from the It Was What It Was team! 00:00 Introduction and Welcoming John Smith 04:41 The Making of 'Escape to Victory' 20:44 Historical Resonances and Themes 28:59 Behind the Scenes Stories 34:09 The Escape Plan in the Film 37:11 The Cast and Their Connections 41:36 The Missing Footballer Mystery 46:01 Lack of Female Characters 47:06 The Football Game Analysis 53:19 The Half-Time Escape Plan 58:00 The Final Match Moments 01:06:13 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 7m

  2. DEC 16

    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 Sports 01:05 George Orwell's Influence on Sports 01:49 The Political Context of the 1945 Moscow Tour 02:47 The Goodwill Tour: Ideals vs. Reality 05:00 The Soviet Union's Football Strategy 08:23 The Arrival of Dinamo Moscow 21:45 The First Match: Dinamo Moscow vs Chelsea 30:53 The Political Showdown: Arsenal vs Dinamo Moscow 32:31 The Final Game in Scotland 35:56 Soviet Propaganda and the Legacy of the Tour 40:36 Tactical Innovations and English Football's Response 47:36 George Orwell's Critique of Sport 53:18 Football's Role in Nationalism and International Relations 01:00:51 Concluding Thoughts on Orwell and Football Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 3m

  3. DEC 9

    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 Today 03:21 Football as a National Obsession 07:41 Globalisation and Football's Cultural Impact 19:12 Economic Disparities in Football 21:35 Football Reflecting Social Inequalities 29:50 Football's Role in Social and Political Issues 31:20 The Role of Football in Society 33:38 Economic Inequality in Football 36:50 The Super League Controversy 41:25 Cultural Resistance and Football's Future 54:42 The Impact of COVID on Football 59:20 State Involvement in Football 01:02:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 3m

  4. DEC 2

    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-assault 00:00 A Dark Story Unfolds 00:31 The Accusation and Confession 04:50 The Aftermath and Public Reaction 05:40 Evidence and Forensic Details 07:05 The State's Role 08:22 Personal Struggles and Downfall 23:42 Speculations and Suspicions 26:14 The Case Against Streltsov 28:14 The Soviet State's Role 30:31 Marina's Disappearance 32:08 Life in the Gulag 40:15 Streltsov’s Return to Football 48:21 Legacy and Controversy 52:06 Conclusion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    53 min

  5. NOV 25

    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-assault 00:00 Introduction 03:38 The Soviet Football Landscape in the 1950s 09:35 Streltsov's Early Life and Family Background 16:31 Streltsov's Football Career Takes Off 20:40 The 1956 Olympics and Missed Opportunities 25:17 The Medal That Never Was 27:01 The Downfall Begins 30:37 A Pattern of Trouble 49:50 Streltsov's Arrest 50:12 Confession and Public Outcry Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    51 min

  6. NOV 18

    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 Success 01:55 Controversial Matches and Referee Decisions 05:20 The Dominance of the Big Five in Argentinian Football 08:37 Hirschl's move to River Plate  11:59 Tactical Evolution and Direct Play 16:55 Hircshl’s Downfall and Match-Fixing Allegations 21:06 Return to Coaching and Success in Uruguay 28:22 Strict Discipline and Unique Methods 29:09 Young Players and Team Dynamics 31:14 Campaign for National Coach 31:59 Political Disputes and Appointments 33:22 World Cup Preparations and Chaos 35:43 Uruguay's Tactical Genius 37:11 The Shocking World Cup Final 43:48 Aftermath and Legacy 44:58 Hirschl's Influence and Final Years Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    54 min

  7. NOV 11

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

    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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    50 min

  8. NOV 4

    How Data Won the Premier League: Liverpool and the Rise of Modern Metrics | Part Two

    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 Football 02:00 Key Figures: Ian Graham and Michael Edwards 03:17 Michael Edwards' Journey 07:18 Early Skepticism and Challenges 12:39 Liverpool's Data Revolution 14:54 Transfer Market Strategies 18:35 Cultural Clashes and Successes 26:24 Ian Graham's Role in Liverpool's Data Revolution 27:42 The Transfer Committee's Struggles and Criticisms 30:23 Jurgen Klopp's Introduction to Data Analytics 35:49 The Impact of Data on Key Signings 42:12 The Evolution and Challenges of Data-Driven Decisions 44:43 The Future of Data in Football 51:47 Conclusion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    53 min
See All (134)

Trailer

Hosts & Guests

5
out of 5
120 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Overlap's football history podcast, It Was What It Was. Each week Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper will be talking about the key episodes in football history that have shaped the footballing world. The show will be discussing the best stories from football's past, giving insights to the personalities involved. the tales from behind the scenes and the impact they left. Join us at Football University! If you enjoy the podcast please hit subscribe to never miss an episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

You Might Also Like