Torino 1942–1949: Il Grande Torino and the Tragedy of Superga

Were Torino of the 1940s the greatest team Italy has ever produced — and how did tragedy immortalise their legacy?

Episode Summary

In this episode of By Far The Greatest Team, hosts Graham Dunn and Jamie Rooney are joined by regular guest Phil Craig to tell the incredible, yet tragic, story of Il Grande Torino (1942–1949).

Built by visionary president Ferruccio Novo and shaped by coach Ernő Erbstein, Torino dominated Italian football during the 1940s, winning five consecutive league titles and becoming the first Italian side to achieve the domestic double. At the heart of the team was Valentino Mazzola, a leader whose influence extended far beyond the pitch.

But their story ended in heartbreak. On 4 May 1949, the team perished in the Superga air disaster, a tragedy that shook Italy and left an irreplaceable void in both Torino and the national team. The episode reflects on their tactical innovations, the resilience of Erbstein, and how Torino’s memory continues to shape Italian football — from Sandro Mazzola’s career to the annual pilgrimages to Superga.

Style of Play

Il Grande Torino epitomised attacking flair and tactical modernity, with a fluid system built on quick passing, intelligent movement, and relentless pressure. Novo and Erbstein’s vision emphasised collective strength, while Mazzola’s leadership gave the side its emotional heartbeat. They were innovators, setting the template for Italian football dominance.

🔑 Takeaways

• Ferruccio Novo’s vision and Ernő Erbstein’s tactics transformed Torino
• Valentino Mazzola as captain, talisman, and symbol of the era
• Five straight league titles and Italy’s first league-and-cup double
• The devastating Superga air disaster of 1949
• Torino’s enduring legacy in Italian football and cultural memory

👉 Call to Action

Listen now and honour the story of Il Grande Torino — a team of brilliance, tragedy, and eternal greatness.

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In this latest episode of By Far The Greatest Team, hosts Graham and Jamie welcome London football expert Stuart Burgess for an in-depth look at Millwall  legendary 1988-89 season. As The Lions stepped into the top tier for the first time, they not only took on English football’s elite but nearly upset the whole establishment.

Join the crew as they dive into the magic of that historic year, examining how key signings like Tony Cascarino and youth team product Teddy Sheringham forged a lethal partnership that terrorised First Division defences. 

Stuart shares insights into Millwall’s playing style, emphasising the importance of strong wingers, a rock-solid midfield, and Jimmy Carter’s unforgettable impact on the pitch. Millwall’s home games at The Den were notoriously tough for opponents, and their fierce identity gave them an edge in matches.

Listeners will enjoy anecdotes about Terry Hurlock’s infamous reputation as a “hardman,” though surprisingly low on red cards, and the fascinating evolution of striking partnerships from the Millwall era to today. The discussion also explores the unpredictable journey of clubs like Millwall, the passionate stories of their fans, and the undeniable cultural impact football has on communities.

Whether you’re a Millwall die-hard, a fan of classic football history, or just love a good underdog story, this episode dives deep into what made Millwall’s 1988-89 season unforgettable.

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This week on By Far The Greatest Team, hosts Graham Dunn and Jamie Rooney turn back the clock to celebrate one of the most groundbreaking moments in football history: Cameroon’s awe-inspiring run to the quarterfinals of the 1990 FIFA World Cup. In a spirited debate, Graham and Jamie examine what made Cameroon’s journey so remarkable, from their bold tactical choices to the unmistakable influence of iconic super-sub Roger Milla, who captured the world’s imagination with his infectious spirit and legendary goals.

The conversation dives deep into the strategy and style that defined Cameroon’s play—a fearless, vibrant approach that mesmerized audiences and shook the football establishment. Graham and Jamie explore the historical and cultural significance of Cameroon’s achievements, especially their thrilling quarterfinal face-off against England, which left fans worldwide in awe. The hosts also discuss how Cameroon’s 1990 World Cup success set the stage for the rise of African football on the global stage, and they reflect on the overall quality of the 1990 tournament itself.

As always, the episode wraps up with a look forward to future discussions on more legendary teams and moments that changed the beautiful game. Don’t miss this fascinating journey through one of football’s most celebrated underdog stories!

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In this week’s episode of By Far The Greatest Team, Graham and Jamie journey back to the early ‘90s to celebrate the unsung giants of women’s football: the iconic Doncaster Belles. With their usual charm, the hosts relive the Belles’ heyday, when this band of gritty, fearless players took the women’s game by storm, winning hearts, titles, and respect all over England. 

Listeners are in for a treat as Graham and Jamie dig into the club’s humble formation, driven by pure community passion, and reflect on the powerful camaraderie that made the Belles such a force. 

From thrilling FA Cup wins to the Belles’ intense rivalry with Arsenal, every match was packed with spirit and determination, especially as many players juggled full-time jobs and grueling fixtures. They shine a spotlight on top scorer Karen Walker, whose relentless drive made her a Belles legend, and reveal the tough realities faced by a team that helped shape the future of women’s football without ever gaining the full support they deserved.

As Graham and Jamie delve into the legacy and impact of the Belles, they celebrate not just a team but a movement that empowered women in sports at a time when resources and recognition were thin. It’s a tribute to the team’s resilience, unbreakable bond, and groundbreaking role in women's football history, inspiring generations to come.

But, where do the Doncaster Belles get ranked in the scale of greatness. Listen in to find out.

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Argentina 1978: Football Glory or Political Shadow?

Was Argentina’s 1978 World Cup triumph a tale of football greatness, or forever tainted by dictatorship, controversy, and politics?

Episode Summary

In this episode of By Far The Greatest Team, hosts Graham Dunn and Jamie Rooney are joined by the “king of controversy” Shane Guiliano to dissect one of football’s most debated triumphs — Argentina’s 1978 World Cup victory on home soil.

The discussion navigates the fine line between footballing brilliance and political manipulation, as Argentina’s military dictatorship turned the tournament into a propaganda tool. On the pitch, Mario Kempes emerged as the star of the competition, firing Argentina to their first ever World Cup. Yet off the pitch, the shadow of dictatorship loomed, from questions over FIFA’s decision-making to the infamous 6–0 win against Peru, which continues to spark allegations of political influence and match-fixing.

The trio explore how immense pressure affected players, the atmosphere inside the stadiums, and the excitement and controversies of the dramatic final against the Netherlands. They also reflect on the broader question: can we truly rank Argentina ’78 among football’s great teams, or does politics permanently distort their legacy?

Takeaways

• The 1978 World Cup was staged during Argentina’s brutal military dictatorship
• FIFA’s role in awarding and overseeing the tournament remains controversial
• Mario Kempes was the standout hero of Argentina’s campaign
• The Peru match raised lasting questions of integrity and political interference
• Players faced intense pressure under the political climate
• The final against the Netherlands mixed drama, excitement, and controversy
• Football and politics intertwined throughout the tournament’s narrative
• The legacy of Argentina ’78 remains debated — football brilliance versus political manipulation

👉 Call to Action

Listen now to discover the truth behind Argentina’s 1978 World Cup win — a story where football greatness and political controversy collide.

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In this episode of By Far The Greatest Team, hosts Graham Dunn and Jamie Rooney are joined by Ipswich Town fan Mark Horrocks for an in-depth discussion on Bobby Robson's golden era at Ipswich Town. Revered for his exceptional managerial skills and character, Robson led Ipswich to remarkable success in the 1970s and 1980s. 

The trio explores key milestones, including the Texaco Cup victory, the club’s FA Cup win in 1978, and the near treble during the 1980-81 season. Robson’s emphasis on youth development, his ability to overcome early challenges with the club’s support, and his introduction of Dutch players that revolutionized Ipswich’s style of play are key talking points.

Listeners will hear about legendary players like Kevin Beattie, John Wark, and Mick Mills, who played pivotal roles in Ipswich's success. Paul Cooper's impressive penalty-saving record, especially during the late '70s, also gets special mention. 

From the UEFA Cup triumph to Robson’s lasting legacy in English and international football, this episode celebrates Ipswich Town’s dominant years and the man who transformed them into a force to be reckoned with.

Don't miss out on personal stories that reveal Bobby Robson's integrity, approachability, and impact both on and off the field. Tune in for a nostalgic journey into one of English football’s most cherished periods and find out where Bobby Robson's Ipswich Town are ranked in the scale of greatness.

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In this deep-dive episode of By Far The Greatest Team, hosts Graham Dunn and Jamie Rooney take a closer look at the iconic Real Madrid team of the 1950s. While their five consecutive European Cups are celebrated as one of the greatest achievements in football, the hosts ask the big question: were they really that great?

Graham and Jamie retrace the club’s rise from relative obscurity to becoming the world's first true football superpower, largely thanks to the visionary leadership of Santiago Bernabéu. They analyze the crucial role of legendary players like Alfredo Di Stefano and Ferenc Puskás in shaping the club’s dominance. But was it all just skill and brilliance? The hosts explore the evolution of tournament formats, dissect the level of competition, and revisit the legendary matches that helped secure Madrid’s place in football history.

As the conversation unfolds, they weigh the statistical achievements of the team against the broader context of football at the time. In reflecting on the club's enduring legacy, they ask: did Real Madrid truly earn their status as one of football's all-time greats, or did circumstances play a bigger role than we think?

Tune in to this engaging and thought-provoking episode for a fresh perspective on the most iconic era of European football!

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In this episode of By Far The Greatest Team Football Podcast, hosts Graham Dunn and Jamie Rooney are joined by North West regular Declan Clark to relive the remarkable story of Blackburn Rovers' Premier League triumph in the 1994/95 season. Under the leadership of Kenny Dalglish and powered by the incredible goal-scoring prowess of Alan Shearer, Blackburn Rovers defied the odds to claim the title, marking one of the most iconic moments in football history.

The trio digs into how Jack Walker's visionary ownership transformed Blackburn from a mid-table club into champions, discussing key players like Shearer, Tim Sherwood, and Colin Hendry, while reflecting on the tactical brilliance that drove the team to success. They debate whether this title win was a one-off stroke of fortune or a legacy of ambition and investment that could have reshaped English football.

If you’re a fan of 90s football nostalgia or fascinated by the business behind building a Premier League-winning team, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for insightful analysis, heated debates, and some unforgettable memories from one of the greatest achievements in English football.

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This week, hosts Graham Dunn and Jamie Rooney are joined by regular guest 'South Coast' Jamie to dive into the history of Southampton FC. The trio takes a nostalgic journey back to the 1981-82 season under the legendary Laurie McMenemy, exploring the influence of superstar Kevin Keegan and the lasting impact of Southampton’s FA Cup victory. 

From tactical breakdowns and the experience of seasoned players to the growing role of foreign imports, the episode provides rich insights into the team’s missed opportunities and remarkable legacy. The conversation also touches on Southampton’s fierce rivalry with Portsmouth, the electric atmosphere at The Dell, and humorous football culture stories. 

With personal anecdotes and keen analysis, this is a must-listen for fans of English football history.

Takeaways

• Laurie McMenemy's era was pivotal for Southampton.
• The 1981-82 season showcased Southampton's potential.
• Kevin Keegan's signing was unprecedented for the club.
• Experience played a crucial role in the team's dynamics.
• The FA Cup win in 1976 set the foundation for future success.
• Southampton's attacking style was both entertaining and risky.
• The introduction of foreign players changed the landscape of English football.
• Injuries hampered the team's performance towards the end of the season.
• The team had a mix of youth and experience that was unique for the time.
• The legacy of this Southampton team continues to influence football today. The 1984 Southampton team had standout players like Danny Wallace and Steve Moran.
• Laurie McMenemy's journey included ups and downs, particularly with Sunderland.
• Ranking teams can be subjective, with categories like 'Blinkered Greats' and 'Edge of Greatness'.
• The Dell stadium was known for its intimidating atmosphere and unique features.
• The conversation highlighted the importance of football rivalries in shaping fan experiences.
• Personal anecdotes about players added depth to the discussion.
• The speakers used a 'pick and mix' analogy to describe the Southampton team.
• Reflections on the dark sides of footballers' lives were also discussed.
• The own goal incidents in recent games were a humorous highlight.
• Future discussions will include other notable teams and historical stats.

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In this captivating episode of By Far The Greatest Team, hosts Graham Dunn and Jamie Rooney are joined by special guest Phil Craig to debate the greatness of Uruguay’s 1930 World Cup-winning team. The trio embarks on an in-depth exploration of Uruguay’s rich footballing history, from its meteoric rise in the early 20th century to its fierce rivalry with Argentina. 

They dive into the significant impact of British migration on the development of the sport in South America, laying the groundwork for Uruguay's footballing culture. The conversation also covers the origins of the World Cup, delving into how Uruguay’s Olympic triumphs in 1924 and 1928 set the stage for the first-ever FIFA World Cup in 1930, which the nation hosted and won.

The episode highlights key players like Hector Castro, the one-armed striker who defied the odds, and José Andrade, often hailed as one of the greatest players of his generation. Their contributions were crucial in establishing Uruguay as the world's first greatest football team—a remarkable feat considering the country’s small population.

The legacy of the 1930 World Cup is not just about the victory but also its lasting impact on global football. Tune in to hear how this small South American nation etched its name in the annals of history, leaving a legacy that continues to influence the beautiful game today.

**Takeaways:**
- Uruguay is often referred to as the world's first greatest football team.
- The rivalry between Uruguay and Argentina dates back to the early days of international football.
- British migration played a crucial role in the development of football in South America.
- Despite its small population, Uruguay boasts a remarkable footballing history.
- The 1924 and 1928 Olympic Games were pivotal for Uruguay’s football legacy.
- Uruguay hosted and won the first-ever FIFA World Cup in 1930.
- Key players like Hector Castro and José Andrade were instrumental in Uruguay’s success.
- The legacy of the 1930 World Cup continues to shape football today.

Whether you're a die-hard football history fan or just curious about the roots of the sport, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and debates that you won't want to miss!

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