Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. After Chelsea's Club World Cup win at the weekend, Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper are joined by author Nick Purewal, who discusses his book Sanctioned: The Inside Story of the Sale of Chelsea FC about the sanctioning of Roman Abramovich and the sale of Chelsea FC.

Here we give a unique insight into the unprecedented chaos surrounding Chelsea during their 2022 sale, including behind-the-scenes details of Abramovich's involvement in peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, a near-poisoning event, and the tumultuous sale process of the club that led to current owner Todd Boehly buying the club.

00:00 Introduction

04:51 Abramovich's Role and the War's Impact

07:35 The Rapid Downfall and Sanctions

16:04 Abramovich's Involvement in Peace Talks

19:28 The Poisoning Incident

26:10 Skepticism and Vindication

29:52 Legal Confusion and Government Challenges

31:47 Chelsea's Struggles Under Sanctions

35:23 The High-Stakes Sale Process

38:48 The Bidding War Heats Up

44:26 Jim Ratcliffe's Last-Minute Bid

50:10 The Aftermath and Reflections

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Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. In a week where we marked our 100th episode, we bring you the quiz between our podcast It Was What It Was against Football Cliches.

Without co-host Rob Draper, It Was What It Was brought in John Brewin alongside producer Pat Moore to join Jonathan Wilson in an epic battle against Football Cliches' Adam Hurrey, Charlie Eccleshare and David Walker.

Three rounds, five questions in each round and a final round of Premier League hunting grounds, in a classic battle for the ages!

If you enjoyed the podcast you can find Football Cliches episodes here: https://podfollow.com/new-football-cliches

Please note: This episode was released by our opponents in February 2025.

Please do review, comment and subscribe to It Was What It Was.

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Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. To mark our 100th episode, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper revisit one of the game’s true pioneers: Herbert Chapman. Long before his Arsenal legacy, Chapman transformed Huddersfield Town in the 1920s, laying the groundwork for modern football and guiding them to become the first club to win three consecutive top-flight league titles.

A century later, Jonathan and Rob delve into the tactical innovations, strategic thinking, and leadership that defined Chapman’s revolutionary approach. This episode brings Huddersfield’s golden era to life—and shows how Chapman’s influence still echoes through the game today, both on and off the pitch.

00:00 Introduction and Milestone Celebration

01:13 Herbert Chapman's Early Life and Career

03:31 Chapman's Tactical Innovations

11:19 Leeds City and Wartime Contributions

22:07 Post-War Challenges and Huddersfield Opportunity

27:44 Brighton's Replay and the Stuffed Donkey Incident

28:49 The Controversial FA Cup Final

30:33 Chapman's Tactical Innovations

34:00 Huddersfield's Rise to Glory

41:52 The Closest Title Race Ever?

46:32 Chapman's Legacy and Move to Arsenal

48:33 Conclusion and Reflections on Chapman's Impact

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Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast.

In the second and final episode of our exploration into Abu Dhabi's takeover of Manchester City, Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper uncover the strategic, political, and historical forces behind one of the most transformative moves in modern football.

Incorporating expert commentary from Dr. Chris Davison, author of Abu Dhabi: Oil and Beyond, this episode explores how a state-led investment in a football club became a powerful tool of international diplomacy. We trace the roots of Abu Dhabi’s global ambitions back to the oil boom of the 1970s and '80s, the legacy of Sheikh Zayed’s leadership, and the shifting political landscape following his death in 2004.

We also examine the rise of Sheikh Mansour, the tightening grip of autocracy, and the human rights questions that shadow this high-stakes project. From geopolitics in the Arab world to influence across Africa and the Indian subcontinent.

00:00 Introduction 01:30 The Foundation of UAE and Its Growth

02:57 Sheikh Zayed's Vision and Leadership

05:24 The Role of Women and Modernisation

08:37 The Al Nahyan Family Dynamics

12:47 The Manchester City Takeover

15:39 The Impact and Strategy Behind the Takeover

22:41 The Strategic Importance of Qatar and Abu Dhabi

23:29 Human Rights Concerns in Abu Dhabi

28:52 Worker Rights and Personal Accounts

31:38 The Yemeni War and Foreign Policy

34:59 Manchester City's Aggressive Strategy

36:19 Comparing Strategies: Abu Dhabi vs. Qatar

44:23 The Future of Manchester City

46:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week, hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper explore the complex history behind the Abu Dhabi takeover of Manchester City. The discussion begins with a chilling recount of a 1984 assassination of UAE ambassador Khalifa Ahmad Mubarak, claimed by the Arab Revolutionary Brigades. This incident serves as a critical backdrop for understanding the motivations and geopolitical factors influencing contemporary Middle Eastern involvement in global sports. Jonathan and Rob look into the precarious position of Abu Dhabi, the history of the UAE's formation, and the significant figures like Khaldoon Al Barak and Sheikh Zed, shedding light on why Abu Dhabi has ventured into the world of football ownership and how this has reshaped not just Manchester City but football in general.

Join us on Friday for Part Two.

00:00 Tragic Assassination in Paris

00:54 Introduction to the Podcast

01:03 The Abu Dhabi Takeover of Manchester City

03:21 Comparing Abramovich and Sheik Mansour

04:29 The Shock of the 2008 Takeover

05:09 The Initial Skepticism and Rabino Signing

07:21 The Role of Solomon Al Faim

09:26 The Importance of Kaldoon Al Mubarak

15:41 The Aggressive Approach to Regulation

22:34 Massacre at Saia and Its Impact

24:25 Khaldoon Al Mubarak's Background

27:19 Transformation of Abu Dhabi

32:23 Discovery of Oil and Its Implications

43:19 Formation of the United Arab Emirates

44:50 Challenges from Regional Powers

45:56 Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two

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Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week, Jonathan and Rob look into the tragic and fascinating latter years of Diego Maradona's professional football career during the 1990s.

Jonathan and Rob explore Maradona's struggles with cocaine addiction, legal troubles, and numerous attempts to revive his career amidst a national crisis for Argentina's football team. From his return to his parents' hometown to his controversial time at the 1994 World Cup, follow Maradona's tumultuous journey as he battles to maintain his footballing legacy.

Please rate, review, and recommend the podcast.

00:00 Introduction to Argentina's Turbulent Football History

00:33 Diego Maradona's Struggles and Return

01:09 Argentina's National Team Crisis

01:56 Maradona's Controversial Comeback

05:01 Challenges with Argentine Football Culture

10:38 Maradona's Legal and Personal Battles

16:56 Road to the 1994 World Cup

24:41 Maradona's Defense and Consequences

26:16 Public Reaction and Media Coverage

27:30 Argentinian Utopianism and Football

31:12 Maradona's Struggles and Ban

36:38 Attempted Comeback and Managerial Stints

38:16 Final Matches and Retirement

48:22 Legacy and Future Stories

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Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper bring a two-part special focussing on the decline of one of the greatest footballers ever, Diego Maradona.

In part one, our co-hosts talk about Maradona's struggles with drug addiction, failed drug tests, and his eventual 15-month ban from football after a positive cocaine test in 1991. Despite these challenges, Maradona's impact on both the Napoli and Argentina national teams remained significant. Discover the infamous 5-0 defeat of Argentina by Colombia in 1993 and explore why the nation clamoured for Maradona's return to save their 1994 World Cup hopes. The episode provides a comprehensive look at Maradona's turbulent years leading up to his attempts at making a comeback.

Join us on Friday for Part Two.

00:00 Introduction and Context

00:30 The Decline of Diego Maradona

02:01 The Infamous Argentina vs. Colombia Match

04:57 The Fallout and National Disgrace

10:48 Maradona's Cultural Significance

16:04 Maradona's Turbulent Life in Naples

23:51 Maradona's Decline and Struggles with Fitness

25:19 Cocaine Scandal and Legal Troubles

26:53 The Fake Penis Incident and Drug Test

30:53 Maradona's Radical Detox and Support System

34:17 Political Context and Maradona's Popularity

39:52 Return to Football and Move to Sevilla

44:04 Struggles in Sevilla and Final Decline

47:52 Personal Breakdown and Return to Roots

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Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast.

With the Club World Cup underway, we wrap up the week with Part Two of our Origin Story series, focusing on Manchester United’s chaotic 2000 Club World Cup campaign in Brazil.

Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper unpack United’s controversial decision to withdraw from the FA Cup, the disorganised nature of the tournament, and the fiery clash between European entitlement and South American intensity.

Plus, we'll hear about the now-legendary story of Roy Keane, Teddy Sheringham, and Nicky Butt hang gliding over Rio - doing their best to stay out of sight of Sir Alex Ferguson!

If you're enjoying It Was What It Was, please hit subscribe to never miss an episode, and consider leaving us a five-star review to help others discover the show. Thank you for listening!

And don't forget to subscribe to our new show Stick to Cricket, wherever you get your podcasts!

00:00 English Expectations and Brazilian Strength

00:48 Introduction to the Double History Podcast

00:58 The Infamous 2000 Club World Cup

02:01 FIFA's Ambitions and the Club World Cup

03:36 The Controversial Decision: Manchester United's Dilemma

04:27 Global Participation and FIFA's Motivations

07:09 Political Pressures and England's World Cup Bid

22:09 Manchester United's PR Disaster in Brazil

25:18 The Tournament Begins: Double Header in Sao Paulo

26:17 The Shabby Stadium and Initial Matches

27:16 David Beckham's Red Card Incident

28:22 United's Aloof Image and Public Relations Disaster

29:26 Tournament Progress and Group Stage Results

30:07 Vasco's Dominance Over Manchester United

33:11 Gary Neville's Struggles and Team Support

38:37 United's PR Disaster in Rio

40:13 Impact on United's Season and Future Tournaments

42:06 Reflections on the Club World Cup

50:43 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

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Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast.

This week, with the Club World Cup underway, Rob and Jonathan delve into its chaotic and often violent origins!

They explore how the early intercontinental tournaments were organised, from the first attempts in the late 19th century to the ultimate establishment of the Toyota Cup.

We'll hear about infamous clashes between Celtic and Racing Club, and Manchester United and Estudiantes.

Join us for part two on Friday, where we continue the journey into the modern era of the tournament and discuss the controversial 32-team format in the USA.

(Apologies for a few audio issues with Rob's mic this week!)

00:00 Introduction and Financial Woes

00:21 The Club World Cup: Origins and Early Years

01:31 Early International Competitions

03:59 The Quest for a World Champion

08:07 The First Recognized World Club Tournament

13:41 The Sir Thomas Lipton Trophy

16:50 The Copa Rio: A New Era

23:16 Controversial Withdrawal and Unsatisfactory Victory

23:37 Rebranding and Decline of the Tournament

24:02 Violence and Domestic Dominance

25:01 The Little World Cup in Venezuela

26:46 The International Soccer League in the US

28:47 European and South American Club Competitions

30:45 The Birth of the Intercontinental Cup

35:34 Violence and Controversy in the Intercontinental Cup

41:36 Decline of the Intercontinental Cup

44:06 The Toyota Cup Era

45:23 The Expanded Club World Cup

46:33 Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two

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Please note: Apologies for the audio issues in the first 10 minutes of the show.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast, with co-hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson.

Today we are joined by special guest David Owen, former sports editor of the Financial Times and author of multiple books on sports history. In this episode, the trio delves deep into the significant alteration of the offside rule on June 13, 1925, and how this monumental change impacted football. From the tactical transformations it spurred, like the introduction of the WM formation and the rise of the centre half role, to its broader effects on the game's entertainment value and popularity, the discussion covers it all.

Join us as we explore one of the most pivotal adjustments in football history and its lasting legacy.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:08 The 1925 Offside Rule Change

02:21 Historical Context of Offside Rule

02:55 Early 20th Century Offside Tactics

05:01 Impact of the 1925 Rule Change

12:27 Adaptations and Innovations

19:04 Immediate Effects in England

26:03 Notable Goal Scoring Feats

27:42 Astonishing Cup Run and Relegation Drama

29:05 Impact of the 1925 Offside Law Change

32:03 Defensive Strategies and Adaptations

34:15 Tactical Innovations and the WM Formation

42:04 Evolution of Player Roles and Transfer Market

53:32 Global Differences and Final Thoughts

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Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast.

In today’s episode, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper explore one of the most powerful stories in football history: Zambia’s remarkable triumph at the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.

Jonathan, who covered the 2012 tournament on the ground, shares firsthand reflections of what he calls the most emotional press box moment he’s ever experienced. 

Nineteen years after a devastating plane crash claimed the lives of their national squad, Zambia rose from the ashes to claim continental glory. This episode retraces their journey - from the tragedy off the coast of Gabon in 1993, the rebuilding efforts led by legendary captain Kalusha Bwalya, right through to their unforgettable victory on penalties in the very same country that witnessed their darkest hour.

00:00 The Final Match: A Battle Beyond the Pitch

00:15 Introduction to an Inspiring and Tragic Football Story

00:36 Zambia's Uplifting Victory After Tragedy

02:26 The 1993 Plane Crash: A National Tragedy

04:37 Zambia's Football Rise in the Late 80s

08:15 The Aftermath of the Crash and the Struggle for Resources

18:42 Rebuilding the Team: The Role of Kaia and New Coaches

24:01 The 2012 African Cup of Nations Journey

25:06 The Quarterfinals and Beyond

27:01 Gabon vs. Mali: A Penalty Heartbreak

27:30 Unexpected Journey to Bata

31:12 Ghana's Complacency and Zambia's Rise

38:38 The Emotional Beach Ceremony

40:27 The Dramatic Final Against Ivory Coast

51:10 Zambia's Historic Victory

52:16 Reflecting on the Significance

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Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Today, Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper explore the remarkable life and career of Luis Enrique, fresh off delivering Paris Saint-Germain’s first-ever Champions League title.

From leading Barcelona to a historic treble in 2015 to now rewriting PSG's narrative in Europe, Enrique’s managerial legacy is already carved into footballing folklore. But behind the silverware lies a deeply personal story; one of resilience, heartbreak, and unshakable determination.

In 2019, Enrique stepped away from football during his time as Spain’s national team coach after the tragic death of his 9-year-old daughter, Xana, who lost her battle with bone cancer. The podcast reflects on how he faced unimaginable grief and later returned to the sidelines with a renewed sense of focus, channeling his pain into purpose.

We also explore the lesser-known side of Enrique — the ultramarathon runner, the iron-willed competitor, and the fitness fanatic who demanded relentless physical commitment from his players. His obsession with endurance has shaped not only the way his teams play but also the culture he instills: high pressing, relentless movement, and mental toughness.

Where does Luis Enrique’s legacy stand now? From Gijón to Camp Nou to Paris, and from personal tragedy to professional triumph — this is a story of more than just football. It’s about the making of a modern great.

0:00 Introduction and Personal Reflection

00:32 Luis Enrique's Early Life and Background

04:15 Football Beginnings and Early Career

07:03 Transition to Real Madrid and Barcelona

16:06 International Career and Notable Incidents

22:52 Post-Playing Career and Coaching Beginnings

29:07 Luis Enrique's Coaching Journey

31:01 Barcelona's Missed Opportunity with Luis Enrique

32:36 Luis Enrique's Success at Celta Vigo

32:49 Barcelona's Second Chance with Luis Enrique

35:41 The Messi Conundrum

37:54 Luis Enrique's Triumphs and Challenges at Barcelona

44:53 The Tragic Loss of Luis Enrique's Daughter

47:15 Return to the Spanish National Team

52:26 Luis Enrique's Tenure at PSG

01:00:36 The Emotional Impact of Luis Enrique's Journey

01:02:41 Conclusion and Reflections

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Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper explore a landmark moment in the sport: Brazil, for the first time in its storied history, has appointed a sole foreign manager, Carlo Ancelotti.

As he prepares to lead the Seleção in his first match on Friday against Ecuador, the episode unpacks the significance of his move to Brazil.

They examine Ancelotti’s coaching philosophy, tracing its roots to his mentor Nils Liedholm and the enduring influence of Hungarian football. The conversation spans decades and continents—from the intellectual cafés of Budapest to the shifting tactical landscape of South America. Along the way, they reflect on the evolution of Brazilian coaching and the global reach of Hungarian tactical innovation.

Join them for a compelling look at the past, present, and future of football strategy, and discover how Ancelotti’s arrival in Brazil could be a return to their roots.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes

00:37 Historic Day for Brazil: Foreign Manager Appointed

01:15 Carlo Ancelotti's Coaching Philosophy

01:55 Brazil's Foreign Coaching History

04:56 The Dominance of Argentinian Coaches in South America

06:04 Brazilian Football's Tactical Evolution

10:30 Hungarian Influence on Brazilian Football

20:56 Brazil's World Cup Preparations and Challenges

26:13 Brazil's Struggles Against European Teams

27:49 Modern Era: Brazil's Coaching Crisis

29:11 Analysing the Decline of Brazilian Football

30:01 The Influence of European Coaching

30:22 The Role of Brazilian Midfielders

30:37 Recent Brazilian Coaches and Their Struggles

31:38 The Turning Point: Italy 1982

32:10 Introduction to Carlo Ancelotti's Appointment

32:49 Carlo Ancelotti's Mentorship and Legacy

35:27 The Hungarian Influence on Modern Football

38:33 The Swedish Connection and Coaching Philosophy

40:22 The Rise of IFK Norrköping

48:28 The Formation of the Gre-No-Li Trio

51:27 Carlo Ancelotti's Impact on Brazilian Football

55:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast.

In this episode, Jonathan and Rob explore the history of Paris Saint-Germain ahead of their Champions League final against Inter Milan.

Join us as we uncover the intriguing journey of PSG - and their transformation from a club with little history to a European powerhouse. Rob and Jonathan explore the significant matches, the controversial ownership and the club's elusive quest for Champions League glory.

For more build-up to the Champions League Final - listen to our episode on Inter Milan - The Birth of the Catenaccio - released earlier this week.

00:00 Introduction to the Football History Podcast

01:08 PSG's Humble Beginnings

02:59 The Formation of PSG

04:30 Challenges and Controversies

06:53 The Role of Media and Public Support

08:48 The Birth of Paris Saint-Germain

11:10 The Struggle for Identity

14:38 The Rise of PSG

20:12 Fashion and Football: The Daniel Hechter Era

25:27 Financial Misconduct in French Football

26:15 PSG's Rise in the 1980s

27:20 Early European Struggles

28:41 Financial Turmoil and Media Takeover

30:32 Golden Years and European Semi-Final Curse

33:31 Qatari Takeover and Controversies

41:45 Branding and Big Signings

46:31 Modern Challenges and Future Prospects

50:12 Conclusion and Champions League final thoughts

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Welcome to this Champions League special episode of It Was What It Was with hosts Rob Draper and Jonathan Wilson. In this episode, they dive deep into the rich tactical history of Inter Milan, tracing the origins and impact of the famous Catenaccio system introduced by legendary coach Helenio Herrera in the 1960s. They explore Herrera's significant influence on modern football management, his controversial methods, and the eventual decline of his tactical system. Additionally, the hosts draw parallels between Herrera's era and Inter Milan's current approach under Simone Inzaghi, highlighting how historical tactics still resonate today as they face PSG in

Join us at the end of the week as we turn our attention to PSG's history, as they look to win the Champions League for the first time.

00:00 Introduction

00:19 Champions League Special: Setting the Scene

00:34 Helena Herrera: The Tactical Genius

01:56 The Birth of Catenaccio

02:56 Karl Rappan and the Swiss Influence

08:43 Catenaccio's Evolution in Italy

13:31 The Rise of Inter Milan

19:02 Herrera's Early Career and Philosophy

27:31 Herrera's Impact at Barcelona

29:54 Transition to Inter Milan

30:07 Inter's Turbulent Coaching History

30:39 Helenio Herrera's Arrival and Impact

31:17 Herrera's Strict Regimen and Control

34:55 Tactical Innovations and Success

42:06 Controversies and Criticisms

49:31 The Decline of Herrera's Inter

56:50 Legacy and Modern Comparisons

01:02:19 Conclusion and Upcoming Content

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Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper focus on the 1984/85 season that changed English football, with Part One focussing on the numerous fan violence incidents then the tragedy of the Bradford fire as 56 fans lost their lives.

Today, in part two, Tony Evans, former sports editor at The Times and author of 'Two Tribes' and 'Far Foreign Land' joins the show to talk about Heysel.

In this episode, Tony Evans shares his harrowing experiences and poignant reflections on the Heysel Stadium disaster of 1985, when 39 football fans tragically lost their lives during the European Cup Final between Liverpool and Juventus. The discussion covers the chaotic events leading up to the disaster, the atmosphere in Brussels, and the aftermath, both immediate and long-term, for football and fan culture.

Don't miss this in-depth exploration of one of the darkest days in football history.

00:00 Introducing the Podcast and Special Guest Tony Evans

02:15 Liverpool in 1985: A City and Club in Turmoil

02:30 The Violent Year: Football and Social Unrest

05:09 The Day of the Heysel Disaster: Personal Accounts

07:46 Chaos in Brussels: The Build-Up to Tragedy

16:57 The Collapse: Mismanagement and Miscommunication

27:45 The Aftermath: Reactions and Reflections

30:35 The Aftermath of the Tragedy

31:43 Personal Recollections and Impact

32:26 Documentary Insights and Victim Stories

34:56 Chaos and Confusion at the Stadium

38:25 The Decision to Continue the Game

49:08 Reflections on Fan Behaviour and Consequences

51:27 The Broader Context and Political Reactions

53:48 Long-term Changes in Football Culture

58:38 Concluding Thoughts on the Tragedy

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Welcome to It Was When It Was, the football history podcast.

This week we're focussing on the 1984-85 footballing season - arguably the bleakest time in English football history - that changed the game forever.

Co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper begin the first of two episodes covering the violence, tragedy, and upheaval of this period and the wider context of football hooliganism in the first half, whilst the second half of part one pays tribute to the horrific Bradford Fire that claimed 56 lives 40 years ago.

Explore gripping firsthand accounts, the reactions of key figures, and the societal and institutional issues that plagued the sport, leading to safety measures and ultimately, a transformation in football culture.

Join us on Friday as we are joined by Tony Evans to talk about the Heysel tragedy that happened at the end of May in 1985.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

01:09 Reflecting on the 1984-85 Season

02:47 The Bradford Fire Tragedy

04:00 Football's Decrepit Stadiums

06:31 Chelsea vs. Sunderland: Milk Cup Semi-Final Chaos

12:36 Luton vs. Millwall: FA Cup Violence

26:35 Birmingham vs. Leeds: Championship Decider Mayhem

29:10 Fans Fight Back and Prolonged Chaos

30:52 Medieval Fortress and Perimeter Fences

31:59 Racism and Aggression in Football Culture

33:15 Introduction to the Bradford Fire

35:04 The Start of the Fire and Initial Reactions

36:16 Rapid Escalation and Desperate Attempts to Escape

38:20 Heartbreaking Personal Accounts and Immediate Aftermath

47:16 Investigations and Controversies

50:57 Negligence and Legal Consequences

57:30 Broader Implications and Future Changes

59:24 Conclusion and Preview of Next Episode

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Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast! Join co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper as they welcome special guest Richard Hough, author of 'Verona Capone, the Miracle of 85'. In this episode, Richard delves into the extraordinary story of Hellas Verona's incredible 1984-85 Serie A title win. From the chaotic Italian football landscape of the 1980s, managerial masterstrokes, and key foreign signings, to the unforgettable moments and lasting impact on the city of Verona, this episode is a deep dive into one of football's most romantic underdog stories. Join us as we explore how a small provincial team conquered giants like AC Milan and Juventus to achieve an unexpected and historic league victory.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:02 Setting the Scene: 1980s Italian Football

02:21 Verona's Rise to Glory

03:28 Economic and Social Context

05:08 Key Players and Strategic Moves

12:15 Tactical Insights and Coaching Philosophy

15:15 Foreign Players and Their Impact

22:55 The Perfect Season Opener

25:04 The Opening Goal and Season Kickoff

25:29 Verona's Iconic Moments and Key Players

30:05 The Turning Point in the Season

33:01 The Final Stretch to the Title

40:42 Celebrations and Legacy

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Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast.

It’s FA Cup final week, with Manchester City set to take on Crystal Palace at Wembley. In this episode, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper revisit the dramatic story of Palace’s remarkable run to the 1990 FA Cup Final.

Just months after a crushing 9-0 defeat to Liverpool, Crystal Palace stunned the same side in a sensational 4-3 semi-final — a match still regarded as one of the greatest in FA Cup history. That victory set up a final against Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United, who, at the time, were still chasing their first trophy under his management.

Today, we delve into where Crystal Palace stood as a club in 1990, explore their tactical shifts, highlight standout performances — especially the impact of Ian Wright — and examine Manchester United’s situation under Ferguson, including the pivotal moments that led to his first silverware with the club. We also examine whether Palace could shock Manchester City and finally win the FA Cup for the first time in their history.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:23 Crystal Palace's Journey to the Semis

03:37 Televised Semifinals and Hillsborough's Impact

11:55 Crystal Palace's Tactical Shift

15:17 The Dramatic Semifinal Match

20:39 Crystal Palace's Historic FA Cup Final

21:06 Manchester United's Journey to the 1990 FA Cup Final

25:55 Ian Wright's Miraculous Comeback

28:35 The Replay and Ferguson's First Trophy

31:56 Comparing Crystal Palace Eras

36:05 Can Crystal Palace Upset Manchester City?

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Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. In today's episode, co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper look back on the rich history of Goodison Park, Everton's storied home ground, as it approaches its final days.

From setting the history into the building of the iconic stadium to picking out unforgettable matches to legendary players, relive iconic moments such as Dixie Dean's record-setting 60 goals in one season, Eusebio's praise at the 1966 World Cup, the famous 1994 relegation battle against Wimbledon and Wayne Rooney's spectacular goal against Arsenal.

Join us as we celebrate the legacy of one of England's most beloved football stadiums.

What's your favourite Goodison Park memory? Get in touch on @ItWasPod on X.

Please don't forget to leave a review and recommend to your friends!

00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks

00:33 The Significance of Goodison Park

01:44 Architectural and Historical Insights

04:32 Memorable Matches and Moments

07:11 Archibald Leitch's Legacy

26:15 Everton's last day survival in 1994 and Match-Fixing Scandal

29:33 The1966 World Cup

40:34 Dixie Dean's 60th Goal of the season

47:27 Wayne Rooney's Stunning Debut Goal

49:44 Farewell to Goodison Park

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