Glittering Prize: The Story of The FIFA World Cup Volume II, 1982-2002

In Glittering Prize: The Story of The FIFA World Cup Volume II, 1982-2002, Jonathan O’Brien cements his reputation as one of football literature’s most insightful voices. This essential history covers what many regard as the greatest chapter in World Cup history, exploring football’s evolution through icons, unforgettable matches and national stories that shaped global culture. Jonathan O’Brien’s razor-sharp narrative guides readers from the drama of Paolo Rossi’s Italy in the 1982 World Cup and Diego Maradona’s spellbinding dominance in the Mexico 1986 tournament to the fairy-tale moments of unlikely heroes like Totò Schillaci and Roger Milla at Italia 90.
Jonathan O’Brien brings these tournaments to life with a blend of thrilling detail and broader context, spotlighting the legendary footballers who defined an era. His deep dive into the revolutionary tactics and personal struggles of players such as Michel Platini, Lothar Matthäus, Roberto Baggio and Zinedine Zidane reveals the drama behind the statistics and scores. O’Brien’s expertise as assistant chief sub at The Irish Times is clear in his meticulous research and fluent prose, capturing the heartbeat of each competition, from USA 94’s dazzling spectacle to the iconic final in France 98.
The book doesn’t just catalogue goals and results; it investigates the wider significance of the FIFA World Cup, from shifting football tactics to seismic cultural trends and the growing power of global media. O’Brien analyses how the World Cup’s golden era redefined what it meant to be a football superstar, with the likes of Maradona and Zidane inspiring generations. His balanced storytelling bridges past and present, ensuring readers see not just the glory but the challenges that teams, players and host nations faced on the world stage.
Jonathan O’Brien’s Glittering Prize Volume II is essential reading for anyone eager to understand why the FIFA World Cup remains the most celebrated and influential event in international sport. With compelling portraits of players and matches, and expertly selected keywords for today’s football audience, O’Brien’s volume stands out as the definitive resource for football fans seeking both nostalgia and insight. This meticulously crafted book ensures the era between 1982 and 2002 is remembered as football’s most glittering prize.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48
Published:  May 4, 2026
Price: £25.00
Hardback: 528 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1836801795