It is generally accepted that the initial development of the modern football game took place in England in the early and middle years of the nineteenth century. This modern form was developed from existing folk games – loosely organized local contests often held irregularly, usually between unequal teams – primarily by the boys of Eton, … Read more
Cruyffian ideals permeate every aspect of the game, but few players have oozed Total Football quite like Ruud Gullit. The majestic Dutchman dominated in an era defined by great defenders, and he paved the way for an entire generation of world-class offensive players. Ruud Gullit Rapid Rise To Fame He was an imposing attacker who … Read more
Few players divided opinions quite like Roberto Baggio. He was beloved by some, hated by others. Unquestionably talented, yet rarely utilized to his full potential. Baggio was one of the best forwards in soccer to set foot on a pitch, but his entire legacy has unfairly been tarnished by one particular blemish. Roberto Baggio Divine … Read more
Managerial success is measured in silverware, but rarely do we consider the long-term influence of a coach on their players and peers. Marcelo Bielsa can’t boast a lavish trophy cabinet, but what he does enjoy is the acclaim of some of the greatest managers of the modern era. El Loco – The Madman Influenced by … Read more
The mighty Pelé often overshadowed Brazilian players of bygone generations. Still, there were some whose star shone just as bright and sometimes brighter than that of their legendary teammate. One of these iconic athletes was Mané Garrincha, a tricky speedster who defined the winger position and became one of his nation’s most revered players. The … Read more
Uruguayan superstar Luis Suárez divides opinions. He was beloved by many, despised by more. This is a man who attracted the ire of an entire continent, a man notorious for biting opponents, but also a family man and a generational talent. Seneca the Younger once wrote that there is no genius without a touch of … Read more
In the ever-changing landscape of football, there has been one constant. For 15 years, Lionel Messi has displayed an unrivaled dominance on the pitch; his success with Barcelona has been unparalleled. But World Cup glory continues to elude him. In the eyes of many Argentines, his failure to deliver the biggest prize in football may … Read more
On 13 November 2002, Juan Alberto Schiaffino, one of soccer’s great players died aged 77. He scarcely looked a footballer being dark-haired, pale, and thin. Still, Juan Alberto Schiaffino possessed superb control and exceptional positional play amalgamated to a talent for spotting openings for others and the ability to find them with precision passes. And … Read more
John Charles captained the West Ham team that defeated Liverpool to win the FA Youth Cup in 1962-63 and was capped by England at youth level. John was the first black player to captain a team to win a major trophy. He established himself as a regular full-back in the Hammers line-up in 1965-66 and … Read more
Adversity breeds resilience, and there is no better example of that than the Jamaica women’s soccer team. After folding not once but twice, they rose from the ashes to become the first Caribbean nation to qualify for a Women’s World Cup. Get Up, Stand Up The Jamaican Football Federation cut funding for the Jamaica women’s … Read more