{"title":"Belgium Qualifies for FIFA World Cup 2026 Finals","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(239, 51, 64);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eOfficial URLs and Associations\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cu\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.rbfa.be\/en\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBelgian Football Association (RBFA)\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/inside.fifa.com\/en\/associations\/BEL\/organisation\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eFIFA Belgium page\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/BelgianRedDevils\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eFacebook (Belgian Red Devils)\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/belgianreddevils\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eInstagram (Belgian Red Devils)\u003c\/a\u003e\n\n\u003c\/u\u003e \u003cbr\u003eFor the most current and official information, check the links above and monitor announcements as the World Cup approaches.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(239, 51, 64);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eBooks, Programmes and Guides\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\n","products":[{"product_id":"england-world-cup-1966-winning-team-signed-by-all-memorabilia-print","title":"England World Cup 1966 Winning Team Signed by All Memorabilia Print","description":"\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThis is without a doubt the finest piece of football memorabilia in the British Isles. This is the only fully signed photo of the legendary England team that emerged victorious in the FIFA World Cup. The photo features the team in red matchday shirts, Bobby Moore holding the Jules Rimet Trophy, and signatures from Alf Ramsey, manager, Harold Stephenson, trainer, and most of the reserves. International collector Nigel Wray's\u003ca title=\"Nigel Wrays Priory Collection\" href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/Priory_Collection\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: blue;\"\u003e\u003cu\u003e Priory Collection\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e purchased the original from us, which was in \u003cmeta content=\"quillbot-gc\" name=\"generator\"\u003eKenneth Wolstenholme's 1970 World Cup Preview Annual. The A4 laminated print of this intriguing piece of historic football memorabilia also bears the signatures of most of the reserves. The reserves include Jimmy Greaves, Jimmy Armfield, Gerry Byrne, Ron Flowers, Norman Hunter, Ian Callaghan, George Eastham, Ron Springett (signed in pencil), and Peter Bonetti.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"text-align: center;\" align=\"justify\"\u003eAll Watermarks are removed from purchased item\u003c\/h3\u003e","brand":"www.soccerbooks.co.uk","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":16698479247406,"sku":"","price":6.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/ENGLAND_1966_15b2b4a7-d0b0-45be-a179-7ec687a4d652.png?v=1765265002"},{"product_id":"the-official-history-of-the-fifa-womens-world-cup","title":"The Official History of the FIFA Women's World Cup 1881 to the present","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Official History of the FIFA Women's World Cup: \u003cbr\u003eThe story of women's football from 1881 to the present \u003cbr\u003eby The FIFA World Football Museum \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eAn official and thorough analysis of all seven FIFA World Cup competitions held from the competition's inception in 1991 can be found in The Official History of the FIFA Women's World Cup. Enriched with over 800 images, exclusive government records, and data, it honours women's football in a way that no other book has. This book contains reviews of every FIFA Women's World Cup and Summer Olympic Games Women's Football competition, in addition to a history of women's football and its globalisation. A comprehensive statistical analysis is included in every FIFA Women's World Cup section. The knowledgeable staff at the FIFA World Football Museum in Zurich painstakingly researched and wrote this book, which chronicles the history of women's football. It begins in the late 18th century and ends with the summer 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup. It examines the history of women's football from the time it was forbidden to the present, highlighting the ways in which each of FIFA's six confederations has embraced and advanced the game. It also examines the main international women's football competitions. This is the definitive history for any fan of women's football who wishes to know how it all started. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE AUTHOR\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe FIFA World Football Museum is based in Zurich, Switzerland. It has a permanent collection and curates special exhibitions. All its contents are exclusive. Football experts from all over the world make up the editorial team, which has David Ausseil as its creative director. They handle the museum's exhibitions and publications, the FIFA Archives, the FIFA Library and Documentation Centre, and all of the museum's interactive and digital platforms. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Publisher: Welbeck Publishing\u003cbr\u003ePublished: December 12, 2019\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £36.00\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 1787393534\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 978-1787393530\u003cbr\u003eHardcover: 272 pages\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 23 x 28 mm \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED DECEMBER 2019","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40167688962094,"sku":"","price":35.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/products\/The_Official_History_of_the_FIFA_Women_s_World_Cup.png?v=1672747770"},{"product_id":"world-cup-matches","title":"50 Great World Cup Matches","description":"\u003ch4 style=\"line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm .0001pt 18.0pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFifty Great World Cup Matches... \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch4 style=\"line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm .0001pt 18.0pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eand Why You Should Watch Them!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBy Dominic Hougham\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr style=\"mso-special-character: line-break;\"\u003e\u003c!-- [if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--\u003e\u003cbr style=\"mso-special-character: line-break;\"\u003e\u003c!--[endif]--\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm .0001pt 18.0pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e• The definitive list of 50 key World Cup matches over the\u003cbr\u003epast 18 tournaments and why fans should watch them\u003cbr\u003e• Tells the reader why each game is so important in World\u003cbr\u003eCup history, discussing both the lead-up and legacy as well\u003cbr\u003eas the match itself\u003cbr\u003e• Covers the greatest World Cup matches, the outstanding\u003cbr\u003eplayers, and famous controversies\u003cbr\u003e• Dominic has written on football for acclaimed journal These Football Times\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFifty Great World Cup Matches—and Why You Should Watch Them! is a highly entertaining guide to the most memorable matches of the last 13 tournaments, from West Germany 1974 to Qatar 2022, analysing 50 great games. Each match is discussed in detail, including the events leading up to it and its legacy. Written in an engaging style, the book brings to life the thrilling match-ups, the legendary players, and the surrounding controversies, immersing the reader in every tournament. For those who remember the games, the book will revive fond memories and provide a fresh perspective, while readers who do not\u003cbr\u003eare in for a treat in discovering for the first time a plethora of magical World Cup moments. This fascinating book will give you a deeper appreciation of the great teams and players and how they fit into the World Cup narrative of the last 50 years, reminding you why the World Cup is the greatest football competition on Earth.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE AUTHOR\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDominic Hougham’s work has been published to popular acclaim by \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eThese Football Times\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Football Pink\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. Driven by a deep passion for football’s World Cup, he decided to share his love of the tournament with others in this, his first book. It provides context for 50 key games, assessing the importance and legacy of each of them.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublication: June 10, 2024\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £19.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN 13: 9781801507240\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFormat: 222mm x 144mm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBinding: Hardback\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExtent: 368 pages \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JUNE 2024","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40939554996270,"sku":null,"price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/50_GREAT_WORLD_CUP_MATCHES.png?v=1718061176"},{"product_id":"they-came-from-a-land-down-under","title":"They Came From a Land Down Under","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e They came from a land down under\u003cbr\u003eThe birth of the Socceroos and how they qualified for the 1974 FIFA World Cup finals By Duncan Mackay\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eOnly the top 16 countries advanced to the FIFA World Cup finals, so Australia faced significant odds when they began their campaign for West Germany in 1974. Australia had never qualified for the tournament. However, under the leadership of their outstanding young coach, Rale Rasic, the Socceroos surprised everyone with a team primarily composed of foreign-born part-timers, often mistreated and dismissed as hopeless. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE AUTHOR\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAward-winning journalist Duncan Mackay is based in the United Kingdom. He spent 17 years working in London for The Guardian and The Observer newspapers before starting inside the games and inside world football. In 2004 and 2009, Mackay was elected UK Sports Journalist of the Year and UK Internet Sports Journalist of the Year by the electorate. Ever since his uncle Jimmy's game-winning goal qualified the Socceroos for the 1974 FIFA World Cup in West Germany, he has been a fan of the team. Mackay, who was eight years old at the time, was lucky enough to be residing in Germany and was present at all three of Australia's games.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff0000;\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eRoyal Mail TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003ePublisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.selfpublishingbooks.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e The Choir Press \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003ePrice: \u003cs\u003e£34.00\u003c\/s\u003e £29.99p\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003eISBN 10: 1789634806\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003eISBN 13:978-1789634808\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003eFormat: 15.6 x 1.9 x 23.4 cm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003eHardcover: 326 pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED NOV 2024","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41075502055470,"sku":null,"price":29.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/They_Came_From_Downunder.png?v=1723961728"},{"product_id":"last-boy-of-66-my-story-of-england-s-world-cup-winning-team","title":"Last Boy of ’66 ~ My story of England’s World Cup winning team","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLast Boy of ’66: My story of England’s World Cup winning team\u003cbr\u003eby Sir Geoff Hurst\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eEngland gets four. Hurst gets three. Pictures of us having a good time have entered the country's photo collection. trophy high, grinning into the future. Banksy, George, Jack, Mooro, Ray, Nobby, Bally, Bobby, Martin, and Roger are my ten teammates. These individuals serve as my associates. They were my former companions. Now, they've all vanished. Heroes from a vanishing period are disappearing before our eyes. But the story is far from over. It's not quite finished yet. One of them remains, and before he departs, Geoff wishes to write down his parting thoughts on 1966. He discusses Alf Ramsay, highlighting his vision, ambition, and commitment. In addition, he was awkward and shy. His teammates are devoted professionals who work hard and maintain their composure, especially Jimmy Greaves. Geoff narrates their narrative as a group, delving deeper to consider their triumph and how it affected their lives. For the Boys of '66, it was a journey of bittersweet goodbyes. They let their team go unnoticed and wasted their heritage. However, what the eleven of them had in common was something no other Englishman had ever known. For the final time, Geoff gathers them all together to see their historic moment. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE AUTHOR\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhen Geoff Hurst became the first player to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final in 1966, he cemented a special position in football history and helped England win their one and only World Cup. Before going to Stoke City and then transitioning into coaching and management, he played the outstanding majority of his career with West Ham United. In 1998, Sir Geoff received a knighthood, and in 2004, he was admitted into the English Football Hall of Fame. He has solidified his status as one of English football's most recognisable characters. Beyond the beautiful games, Sir Geoff serves as an ambassador for Sue Ryder and donates his time to support a number of charity organisations, including the Alzheimer's Society. He and his spouse, Judith, reside in Gloucestershire. It is his sixth novel.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0); text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.penguin.co.uk\/company\/publishers\/ebury\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Ebury Spotlight \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: October 24, 2024\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £16.99\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 1529938481\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 978-1529938487\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 15.6 x 4 x 24 cm\u003cbr\u003eHardcover: 304 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2024","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41079964434478,"sku":null,"price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Geoff-Hurst.png?v=1724141892"},{"product_id":"girls","title":"The Lost Lionesses: The incredible story of England’s forgotten trailblazers","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Lost Lionesses:\u003cbr\u003eThe incredible story of England’s forgotten trailblazers\u003cbr\u003eby Gail Emms MBE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThis fascinating and moving account of the first England women's football team to compete in the 1971 World Cup covers both the unfairness the players experienced and the effect it had on women's football as a whole. The squad told the tale, and the famous daughter of the main striker wrote it. One headline after the 1971 First Women's World Cup read, \"Don't laugh; one day there may be a female Arsenal.\" The first lionesses, a mixed bag of schoolgirls, bank clerks, and telephonists, were the focus of attention. The majority of them belonged to the Chiltern Valley football team, which Harry, a sixty-year-old bus driver, oversaw. During the 1971 World Cup in Mexico, these amateur girls became England's first women's football team, but when they got back home, they were met with ridicule. The press's mockery of them undermined their accomplishments. Players may receive a three-month to two-year suspension if they tried to play for another team. The heroes had earned their just rewards. Now, fifty years later, is the right time to reveal their truth. The daughter of one of the team members, Janice Barton, tells this multigenerational tale, providing unrivalled access to the insights and secrets of the first-ever woman's team. It celebrates the strength of a group of women who refused to accept the status quo and reveals how the events of 1971 shaped the lives of mother and daughter on a personal and professional level. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline; color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE AUTHOR\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRetired English badminton player Gail Emms, MBE, has won doubles championships across the globe. After being selected to play for England in 1995, Gail went on to win a silver medal in the mixed badminton doubles competition at the Olympics in Athens, along with Nathan Robertson, to become a world champion. 2008 saw her leave the sport. Since then, Gail has built a prosperous media career and established herself as a regular on prestigious shows like Question of Sport and Fighting Talk (5 Live). In addition, she manages events and public relations for her own prosperous business. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.octopusbooks.co.uk\/imprint\/octopus\/cassell\/page\/cassell\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Cassell \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: September 26, 2024\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £17.99\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 1788404963\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 978-1788404969\u003cbr\u003eHardcover: 336 pages \u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 234 x 153mm \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 2024","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41080610357294,"sku":null,"price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/The-Lost-Lionesses.png?v=1724172765"},{"product_id":"macca","title":"MACCA My Story So Far ~ Mackenzie Arnold","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: XX-large;\"\u003eWhen Courage Meets the Moment\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!-------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn sports literature, there's a delicate balance between capturing the intensity of pivotal moments and revealing the human journey that made them possible. \"MACCA: My Story So Far\" achieves this balance with remarkable grace, offering readers both the thunderous roar of stadium triumph and the quiet determination of a young goalkeeper from the Gold Coast. The book's centrepiece is, inevitably, that epic penalty shootout against France—the longest in World Cup history—where Arnold's heroics helped secure the Matildas' first-ever semi-final appearance. But what makes this memoir compelling is how it frames this moment not as a destination but as part of a continuing evolution. Arnold and co-author Emma Kemp skillfully weave together the personal and professional, showing how the transformation from bit-part player to one of the Matildas' most vital team members didn't happen overnight. The narrative is refreshingly honest about the challenges faced, including the frustrations with former coach Tony Gustavsson and the self-doubt that accompanied her early career. What sets this book apart is its exploration of leadership. Arnold's journey to becoming captain of West Ham United reveals a player who leads not just with saves and strategies but with vulnerability and authenticity. Her reflections on team dynamics and personal growth offer insights valuable beyond the sporting world. \u003cbr\u003eThe book is particularly powerful in its discussion of pressure and expectation. Through Arnold's eyes, we see how the Matildas transformed from underdogs to national heroes, carrying the hopes of millions during that unforgettable 2023 World Cup campaign. Her description of the moments before each penalty against France, where she was later named player of the match, is masterfully crafted, putting readers right there in the goal mouth, feeling every heartbeat. \u003cbr\u003eKemp's journalistic background shines through in the book's structure, which artfully balances chronological storytelling with thematic exploration. The prose is crisp and engaging, avoiding both the clichés of sports writing and the self-importance that can plague athlete memoirs. Instead, we get a voice that feels authentically Macca—direct, thoughtful, and occasionally self-deprecating. \u003cbr\u003eThe book also serves as a valuable document of women's football's rising prominence in Australia. Through Arnold's career trajectory, from local leagues to being crowned Women's Hammer of the Year at West Ham, we see the sport's evolution and increasing professionalisation. \u003cbr\u003eLooking forward, the memoir doesn't shy away from discussing future ambitions, including the upcoming Paris Olympics. This forward-looking perspective gives the book an energy and immediacy that many sports memoirs lack. It's not just a record of what was, but a snapshot of an athlete—and a sport—in ongoing transformation. \u003cbr\u003e\"MACCA\" succeeds because it understands that the best sports stories are human stories. Whether you're a devoted football fan or someone who barely knows what a penalty shootout is, you'll find yourself invested in Arnold's journey. It's a story about finding your voice, facing your fears, and standing tall when the moment calls—themes that resonate far beyond the goal line. \u003cbr\u003eIn the end, what makes \"MACCA: My Story So Far\" remarkable is its ability to capture both the extraordinary and the everyday aspects of a life in sport. It's a reminder that behind every historic moment are countless hours of preparation, doubt, resilience, and growth. Just like its subject, this book doesn't just show up for the big moments—it puts in the work to earn them.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0); text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: Penquin\u003cbr\u003ePublished: February 25, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £17.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 320 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 1761347349\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 978-1761347344\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 154 x 233 mm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53607216152956,"sku":null,"price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/MACCA.png?v=1730410874"},{"product_id":"the-matilda-effect-womens-world-cup-wins","title":"The Matilda Effect: Women's World Cup Wins","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eA Powerful Chronicle of Women's Football Evolution\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn \"The Matilda Effect\", Fiona Crawford masterfully weaves together the inspiring and often turbulent history of the Australian women's national football team, the Matildas. Published in May 2023, this compelling narrative arrives at a pivotal moment in women's football history, coinciding with the Matildas' historic semi-final appearance in their home World Cup. \u003cbr\u003eCrawford, whose expertise spans both sports journalism and social issues, brings a unique perspective to this chronicle. Her background as an adjunct lecturer at Queensland University of Technology's Centre for Justice enriches the narrative with thoughtful analysis of gender equality and human rights issues that extend far beyond the pitch. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's greatest strength lies in its comprehensive exploration of the Matildas' journey from the 1980s to the present day. Crawford skilfully documents the team's early struggles, including the shocking reality that women once had to pay to participate in the pilot Women's World Cup. The narrative reaches its crescendo with the landmark 2019 equal pay agreement, where the Matildas became one of the first women's national teams in world football to achieve pay parity with their male counterparts. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this book apart is Crawford's ability to transport readers beyond the typical sports narrative. Crawford transports us into the team's hotels, onto their buses, and into the boardrooms that shaped crucial decisions about women's football. The author's extensive research and engaging writing style bring to life the personalities and politics that shaped the sport's evolution. \u003cbr\u003eParticularly compelling is Crawford's examination of the 2015 players' strike, a pivotal moment in the team's fight for recognition and fair treatment. This episode exemplifies the book's broader themes of persistence and collective action in the face of institutional resistance. \u003cbr\u003eThe timing of this book couldn't be more perfect, published just before the Matildas' historic 2023 World Cup campaign, where they achieved their best-ever finish and captured the nation's imagination. While this tournament falls outside the book's timeline, Crawford's work provides essential context for understanding the significance of these recent achievements. \u003cbr\u003e\"The Matilda Effect\" is more than just a sports book; it's a vital piece of social history that documents the long march toward gender equality in sport. Crawford's ability to balance detailed reporting with broader social commentary makes this work accessible to both football enthusiasts and readers interested in social justice and gender equality. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's only minor shortcoming is that some readers might wish for more detailed tactical analysis of key matches. However, this is clearly a conscious choice for Crawford, who prioritises the human story and institutional changes over technical aspects of the game. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e Publisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.mup.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Melbourne University Publishing \u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 30, 2022\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £12.50\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 304 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 0522878008\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 978-0522878004\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 152mm x 228mm\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2022","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53608655126908,"sku":null,"price":12.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/The-Matilda-Effect.png?v=1730615919"},{"product_id":"the-unseen-sir-alf-a-different-kind-of-hero","title":"The Unseen Sir Alf: A Different Kind of Hero","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003e66 and Beyond\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eThe Real Story of England's Greatest Manager\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eGrant Bage's \"The Unseen Sir Alf: A Different Kind of Hero\" is a revelatory exploration of Sir Alf Ramsey, the enigmatic manager who led England to its sole World Cup victory in 1966. This meticulously researched work, far from being a conventional sports biography, offers readers a profound understanding of a complex national hero who transcended the football pitch.\u003cbr\u003eBage's approach is both scholarly and deeply empathetic. Drawing on five years of extensive research, he presents Ramsey not as a distant historical figure but as a multifaceted human being shaped by challenges of prejudice, poverty, and neurodiversity. The book's strengths lie in its ability to contextualise Ramsey's achievements against the broader social landscape of mid-20th-century England. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this biography apart is Bage's innovative narrative structure. He doesn't merely chronicle Ramsey's football career but connects his legacy to contemporary football figures like Gareth Southgate. This approach transforms the book from a mere historical account to a living, breathing exploration of leadership, resilience, and national identity. \u003cbr\u003eThe author doesn't shy away from Ramsey's complexities. He portrays a man who could be simultaneously brusque with journalists and deeply loved by his players—a nuanced character who defied simple categorisation. Bage's research reveals a radical thinker who was also capable of remarkable conformity, challenging readers' preconceived notions about football management in the 1960s. \u003cbr\u003eParticularly compelling is the book's exploration of Ramsey's personal struggles. By highlighting his journey from modest beginnings to becoming England's most celebrated football manager, Bage crafts an inspirational narrative that extends far beyond sport. The book becomes a testament to overcoming societal barriers and challenging expectations. \u003cbr\u003eFor football enthusiasts and social historians alike, \"The Unseen Sir Alf\" offers a rich, multilayered portrait. Bage's writing is engaging, scholarly without being pedantic, and deeply compassionate. He has achieved something remarkable: a biography that honours its subject while simultaneously challenging readers to reconsider their understanding of leadership, difference, and national achievement. \u003cbr\u003eThis is more than a sports book—it's a profound meditation on human potential, resilience, and the often-overlooked stories behind our national heroes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: September 15, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £25.00\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1801509581\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1801509589\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHardback: 352 pages\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 240 x 250 mm\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54825903096188,"sku":null,"price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/SIR_ALF.png?v=1734239626"},{"product_id":"cup-finals-the-greatest-football-stories-ever-told","title":"Cup Finals: The Greatest Football Stories Ever Told","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCup Finals\u003cbr\u003eThe Greatest Football Stories Ever Told\u003cbr\u003eby \u003cspan\u003eJason Holyhead\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\"Cup Finals: The Greatest Football Stories Ever Told\" by Cliff Hague is an upcoming paperback book, set to be published on April 28, 2025. Cliff Hague, celebrated for his profound admiration of cup finals and his earlier book \"Programmes! Programmes! Football and Life from Wartime to Lockdown\", offers an engaging exploration of the drama and magic associated with the greatest football cup finals.\u003cbr\u003eHague brings his distinctive perspective to the storytelling of football, offering fresh analysis and new insights into the narratives surrounding cup finals.\u003cbr\u003eThe book celebrates some of the most famous cup final games ever played while also shining a light on grassroots football, capturing the essence of the sport at all levels.\u003cbr\u003eIt spotlights players who became legends through their performances at cup finals, exploring how these high-stakes matches have immortalised certain figures in football history.\u003cbr\u003eThe book blends stories involving major British clubs such as Arsenal, Celtic, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United with those of European and Latin American football giants, showcasing a diverse range of narratives.\u003cbr\u003eBy bringing bygone cup finals to life with iconic photos, the book provides a rich historical context, allowing readers to relive the moments that defined these matches.\u003cbr\u003eIt includes stories from an array of cup finals, such as the World Cup, European Cup, Africa Cup of Nations, the Women's World Cup, and more, covering competitions from Argentina, Bulgaria, and beyond, naturally including the FA Cup.\u003cbr\u003eFrom tales of global superstars like Messi and Mbappé to semi-professional players who became local heroes, the book offers a wide array of stories that capture the passion and spectacle of cup finals.\u003cbr\u003eThe narrative delves into themes of nostalgia, corporate greed, and the enduring question of whose cup it truly is, providing a critical examination of the impact and meaning of these events.\u003cbr\u003eThis book is perfect for football enthusiasts and anyone interested in the rich tapestry of stories that cup finals produce. It promises to be an engrossing read that captures the highs and lows, the heroes and villains, and the sheer drama that make cup finals unforgettable.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!----------------------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0); text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eROYAL  MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: April\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £14.99 \u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 240 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1801509425\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1801509428\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 216 x 138mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED APRIL 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54833256300924,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/CUP_FINALS.png?v=1733132455"},{"product_id":"the-official-history-of-the-fifa-womens-world-cup-2024","title":"The Official History of the FIFA Women's World Cup","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Official History of the FIFA Women's World Cup\u003cbr\u003eby FIFA Museum\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThe FIFA Museum's comprehensive chronicle arrives in a year that has seen women's football reach unprecedented heights, serving as both a celebration and a historical record of the sport's remarkable journey. This lavishly produced volume, featuring more than 300 colour images, serves as a definitive account of women's football's premiere competition. \u003cbr\u003eThis book's release coincides perfectly with the most attended Women's World Cup in history, drawing nearly two million fans and showcasing the sport's explosive global growth. The book's coverage extends through the historic 2023 tournament in Australia\/New Zealand, where Spain claimed their first World Cup title with a 1-0 victory over England and includes the 2024 Paris Olympics, providing the most up-to-date chronicle of women's football available. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this volume apart is its privileged access to the FIFA Museum's extensive collection, which has been meticulously curated in Zurich. The book is packed with stunning photographs and numerous official documents, many of which have never been published before, offering readers unprecedented insight into the tournament's evolution. \u003cbr\u003eThe book excels in its thorough exploration of women's football history, tracing the sport's development from its 19th-century origins through its various challenges and triumphs. It pays particular attention to watershed moments, such as the United States' record four World Cup victories and the growing competitiveness of European nations recently. \u003cbr\u003eThis official history stands as the most complete and authoritative document of women's football's premier competition. Its combination of thorough research, beautiful presentation, and unprecedented access to official archives makes it an essential addition to any serious football library. The inclusion of the 2023 World Cup and 2024 Olympics ensures its relevance as both a historical document and a contemporary record of the sport's golden age. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's only limitation might be its official nature—while comprehensive, it perhaps lacks the critical perspective an independent historian might bring. However, its absence is more than compensated for by the unprecedented access to FIFA's archives and the stunning visual presentation. \u003cbr\u003eThis masterwork deserves its place as the definitive record of women's football's most prestigious tournament, offering both casual fans and serious researchers an invaluable resource that will likely remain the standard reference for years to come. \u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Publisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.headline.co.uk\"\u003eHEADLINE\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: March 13, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £35.00\u003cbr\u003eHardback: 288 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 1035421895\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9781035421893\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 286 x 233 mm \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MARCH 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54841138020732,"sku":"45MAIL","price":35.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/FIFA_WORLD_CUP_HISTORY_2025.png?v=1733790132"},{"product_id":"irelands-breaking-point-the-world-cup-feud-that-shook-a-nation","title":"Ireland's Breaking Point : The World Cup Feud That Shook a Nation by Payton Winns","description":"\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eSaipan's Perfect Storm The Fight\u003cbr\u003eThat Tore Irish Football Apart\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!-------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" height=\"480\" width=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/SAIPAN_2025_MOVIE_POSTER.png?v=1738228655\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn the annals of sports controversies, few incidents have captured a nation's attention quite like the Saipan incident of 2002, when Ireland's World Cup dreams imploded before a ball was even kicked. Payton Winns' \"Ireland's Breaking Point\" arrives at a fascinating time, as the wounds from this historic fallout continue to resonate in Irish football. \u003cbr\u003eThis compact but compelling work dives deep into what The Irish Times calls \"a phoney war, where nobody died and everybody lost.\" The brilliance of Winns' narrative resides in its capacity to surpass the straightforward dichotomy of Team Roy versus Team Mick, instead delving into the intricate network of personalities, principles, and pride that precipitated this tumultuous conflict.\u003cbr\u003eThe book's greatest strength is its thorough examination of both principal characters. We see McCarthy, the manager, trying to maintain authority while preparing for Ireland's biggest sporting moment in years, and Keane, the team's best-known, most successful player, whose uncompromising standards clashed with what he perceived as amateur preparations. Winns skilfully portrays how their confrontation became a proxy war for deeper issues in Irish society and sport. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this account apart is its exploration of the aftermath. While many know the basic story, Winns reveals how the incident's ripples extended far beyond football. The author shows how the Genesis report would later vindicate many of Keane's criticisms about the Football Association of Ireland's management, adding crucial context to the immediate drama. \u003cbr\u003eThe narrative is particularly strong when examining how this controversy divided Irish society. Through meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Winns demonstrates how the Saipan incident ignited discussions about Irish identity, professionalism, and the interplay between individual principles and collective duty.\u003cbr\u003eHowever, the book occasionally resorts to rehashing well-worn territory. Some readers might wish for more new revelations or insights, especially given the wealth of material already published about this incident over the past two decades. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: medium;\"\u003eThe Film That Reopens Ireland's Most Infamous Football Wound\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e Despite this minor shortcoming, \"Ireland's Breaking Point\" succeeds in its ambitious goal of placing the Saipan incident within a broader cultural and historical context. It's particularly timely given that a film adaptation of these events is now in production, starring Steve Coogan as McCarthy, released in the summer of 2025. \u003cbr\u003eFor football fans, this book offers a thoughtful examination of one of the sport's most fascinating conflicts. For those interested in Irish society and culture, it provides valuable insights into how sporting moments can become cultural touchstones. Winns has crafted a narrative that shows how what happened on a small Pacific island continues to echo through Irish football and society today. \u003cbr\u003eWhile the book might not definitively settle the debate about who was right or wrong in Saipan, it succeeds in something more valuable: helping us understand why this moment continues to captivate and divide opinion more than two decades later. In doing so, it makes a valuable contribution to both sports literature and Irish cultural history. This is essential reading for anyone interested in understanding how a football dispute became a defining moment in modern Irish history and why its implications continue to resonate today. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 \u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: Independently Published\u003cbr\u003ePublished:  November 23, 2024\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: £23.93, 80 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 979-8300958664\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED NOVEMBER 2024","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54859024859516,"sku":null,"price":23.93,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/SIAPAN_0001.png?v=1737546415"},{"product_id":"answered-prayers-england-and-the-1966-world-cup","title":"Answered Prayers: England and the 1966 World Cup by Duncan Hamilton","description":"\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eA Melancholic Masterpiece \u003cbr\u003eof Football History\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003ePaperback and Hardback are available\u003cbr\u003eThere are also high-quality secondhand editions available; select your preferred option below.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!-------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn \"Answered Prayers\", Duncan Hamilton revisits England's legendary 1966 World Cup victory, unravelling the myths surrounding that historic day. Through vivid storytelling, Hamilton explores the bittersweet aftermath of glory for Alf Ramsey and his players, revealing how triumph became both a blessing and a burden. This deeply researched account delves into post-war Britain's impact on the team and the institutional failings that followed. More than just a sports book, it's a poignant reflection on fame's impermanence and a compelling portrait of an era.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 \u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.quercusbooks.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Quercus Books \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHardback: £20.00, 480 pages; Published 23rd November 2023\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: £12.99, 480 pages; Published 6th June 2024\u003cbr\u003eHardback: £11.99, 480 pages; secondhand, Excellent Condition\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: £  9.99, 480 pages; secondhand, Excellent Condition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!-----------------------------WE HAVE REVIEWED------------------------\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.soccerbooks.co.uk\/blogs\/soccerbooks-book-reviews\" alt=\"Book Reviews by www.soccerbooks.co.uk\"\u003e \u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" height=\"210\" width=\"214\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/BOOK_REVIEW_LOGO.png?v=1736293623\" alt=\"Book Reviews by www.soccerbooks.co.uk\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c!----------------------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JUNE 2024","offers":[{"title":"Hardcover £20.00","offer_id":54860923273596,"sku":"","price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Hardback (secondhand) £11.99","offer_id":54883000353148,"sku":"","price":11.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Paperback £12.99","offer_id":54860923306364,"sku":"","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Paperback (secondhand) £9.99","offer_id":54882980856188,"sku":"","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Answered-Prayers.png?v=1735927310"},{"product_id":"the-power-and-the-glory-the-definitive-story-of-the-world-cup","title":"The Power and the Glory: The Definitive Story of the World Cup","description":"\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eKings and Pawns: Power, Politics, and the Men Who Made the World Cup\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003ePaperback and hardback are available; choose below.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!-------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eJonathan Wilson's upcoming book, \"The Power and the Glory: The Definitive Story of the World Cup\", is poised to make a significant contribution to sports literature, particularly in an era where football writing often focuses on superficial aspects. Set for release on October 16, 2025, this 448-page hardback aims to deliver what no other book has attempted: a comprehensive history of the World Cup that weaves together the sporting spectacle with its profound socio-political impact. \u003cbr\u003eWilson brings formidable credentials to this ambitious project. Known for his meticulous research and contextual approach to football writing, he has established himself as one of the sport's premier historians. His previous works, including the influential \"Inverting the Pyramid\", have demonstrated his ability to place developments in football within their broader societal context. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this book apart is its scope. While most World Cup histories focus solely on matches and memorable moments, Wilson examines how the tournament has shaped—and been shaped by—global politics, cultural movements, and national identities. From Uruguay's triumph in 1930 to Qatar's controversial hosting in 2022, the book promises to explore how the World Cup has evolved from a modest sporting competition into what the author calls \"a cultural phenomenon that draws the world together like nothing else.\" \u003cbr\u003eThe narrative directly addresses challenging subjects. Wilson's exploration of \"sportswashing\" through recent tournaments in Russia and Qatar and his analysis of football's role in international conflicts (like the Soccer War of 1969) suggest a book that refuses to shy away from football's darker implications. Yet he balances his analysis with uplifting stories of national pride and unity, such as West Germany's 1954 reintegration into global society through football success. \u003cbr\u003eEarly previews are already calling this book \"an automatic must-read\" for football fans. Its real achievement, however, may lie in appealing to readers beyond the sport's traditional audience. By positioning the World Cup as a lens through which to view a century of global history, Wilson has potentially created a book that speaks to anyone interested in how sport shapes our world. \u003cbr\u003eThe timing of this book feels particularly apt. As football continues to evolve and the World Cup expands to new horizons (with the 2026 tournament set to be hosted across North America), understanding the tournament's history and influence becomes increasingly relevant. Wilson's comprehensive examination of how the World Cup has reflected and influenced global society over nearly a century promises to provide valuable context for the tournament's future direction. \u003cbr\u003e\"The Power and the Glory\" appears set to do what the best sports books do: transcend its subject matter to tell a larger story about who we are and how we got here. For anyone interested in football, international relations, or cultural history, this book looks to be an illuminating and essential read. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48  \u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: Visit\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.littlebrown.co.uk\/imprint\/lbbg\/abacus\/page\/little-brown-books\/lbbg-imprint-abacus\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Abacus Books \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished 16th October 2025\u003cbr\u003eHardback: £19.99, 488 pages \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003eNOW IN STOCK\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: £11.99, 488 pages \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e PUBLISHED MAY 2026\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 0349145709\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 978-0349145709\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Hardcover","offer_id":54861271531900,"sku":"","price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Paperback","offer_id":54861271564668,"sku":"","price":11.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/The-Power-and-the-Glory.png?v=1763096071"},{"product_id":"the-story-of-the-world-cup-2018","title":"The Story of the World Cup: 2018","description":"\u003c!-------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eBrian Glanville's dramatic history of the world's most famous football tournament has become the most authoritative guide to the World Cup. Brian Glanville's classic, bestselling account vividly celebrates the great players and legendary matches in the competition from Uruguay in 1930 to Brazil in 2014, while also boldly criticising those who have mismanaged the 'beautiful game'. Fully revised and updated in anticipation of Russia's hosting of the event in 2018, this is the definitive book on the World Cup for football fans and novices alike. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(83, 155, 11);\"\u003ePaperback. Condition: Very Good. The book examines the history of the World Cup, providing vivid accounts of individual games as well as behind-the-scenes stories and character sketches of the great managers and players of the game. Despite its reading history, the book remains in excellent condition. Pages are intact and not marred by notes or highlighting. The spine remains undamaged.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JANUARY 2018","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54861242466684,"sku":null,"price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/WORLDCUP_0001.png?v=1735984551"},{"product_id":"1970-world-cup-preview-by-kenneth-wolstenholme","title":"1970 World Cup Preview by Kenneth Wolstenholme","description":"\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e1970 World Cup Preview Book ’by Kenneth Wolstenholme. World Distributors published the book in 1969. The UK published the first edition. The book is presented with laminated pictorial boards and does not come with a dust wrapper as issued. The book is in excellent condition with no marks. The official preview is an annual event for the 1970 World Cup.\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JANUARY 1969","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54861262717308,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/WORLDCUP_0002.png?v=1735985984"},{"product_id":"world-cup-fever-a-footballing-journey-in-nine-tournaments","title":"World Cup Fever: A Footballing Journey in Nine Tournaments","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eBeen There\u003cbr\u003eGot the T-Shirt, Wrote the Book: \u003cbr\u003eNine World Cups, One Man's Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Verdana;\"\u003eThe Football World Cup is the biggest sporting competition on Earth, a chance every four years for the greatest players to win international glory, and a month-long media spectacle that's watched by an audience of billions.\u003cbr\u003eSince its inception in Montevideo, Uruguay, in July 1930, the tournament has undergone significant transformations. What was once a semi-professional meeting beset by haphazard play has evolved to become a game of multinational buyouts, dubious ethics, and questionable aims. This new era of football has a lot to teach us about our globalised world.\u003cbr\u003eSimon Kuper is among the vanishingly small number of writers who have attended every World Cup since 1990. The World at My Feet is his journey to find the heart of football through the nine tournaments he's experienced firsthand, from watching matches in half-empty stands during Italia 90, a tournament that at times felt like a village fête, to witnessing the French triumph at home in 1998, South Africa's national dream in 2010, and the troubling legacy of Qatar 2022. The story of football's global impact is told in pubs, front rooms, on the streets, and on the pitch.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eGreat Book Selection – Visit  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/profilebooks.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eProfile Books\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: 2nd October 2025\u003cbr\u003eHardback: £19.99, 256 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10 : 1805224107\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1805224105\u003cbr\u003eDimensions : 236 x 158 (mm) \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54861292732796,"sku":null,"price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/WORLD-CUP-FEVER.png?v=1750143641"},{"product_id":"the-gaffers-mick-mccarthy-roy-keane-and-the-team-they-built","title":"The Gaffers: Mick McCarthy, Roy Keane and the Team They Built.","description":"\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eTwo Men, One Dream, and a Nation Divided\u003cbr\u003e The Real Story Behind Keane and McCarthy\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!-------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003ePaul Howard’s \"The Gaffers: Mick McCarthy, Roy Keane and the Team They Built\" is essential reading for any football supporter fascinated by the volatile intersection of leadership and personality in international football. The book opens with Ireland’s unforgettable triumph over Holland at Lansdowne Road, a night that secured qualification for the 2002 FIFA World Cup and set the stage for one of soccer’s most infamous bust-ups. Howard’s meticulous reporting and sharp insight guide the reader through the tense relationship between Irish manager Mick McCarthy and captain Roy Keane, highlighting the simmering tensions that would culminate in the explosive Saipan incident.\n\u003cbr\u003e\nAdrian Besley’s influence as a celebrated football author is evident in the book’s balanced portrayal of both McCarthy and Keane. Howard, with journalistic rigour, pieces together first-hand accounts from players, management, and fans, creating a vivid reconstruction of the events that split Irish football in two. The narrative captures the raw emotion and divided loyalties that defined this era, making it a must-read for those interested in sports psychology and the pressure-cooker environment of World Cup football.\n\u003cbr\u003e\nHoward’s storytelling shines in the aftermath of Keane’s departure, with \"The Gaffers\" exploring not just what happened, but why. By delving into the Football Association of Ireland’s role, Howard adds vital context, demonstrating how institutional weaknesses and human frailty combined to derail a nation’s sporting dream. \n\u003cbr\u003e\nWith renewed interest fuelled by the upcoming film adaptation, Howard’s account remains as relevant as ever. His objectivity and depth ensure that \"The Gaffers\" stands apart—not merely as a chronicle of Irish football’s most dramatic controversy, but as a nuanced study of ambition, conflict, and the fragile unity behind every team’s pursuit of greatness.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 \u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher:\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/obrien.ie\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e O'Brien Press Ltd \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: November 23, 2024\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: £9.99p, 240 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 0862787815\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-0862787813\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED AUGUST 2002","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54862180811132,"sku":"35mail","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/The-Gaffers.png?v=1736116633"},{"product_id":"how-to-win-the-world-cup-secrets-and-insights-from-international-football-s-top-managers","title":"How to Win the World Cup: Secrets and Insights from International Football’s Top Managers","description":"\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eSuperb great stories about the greatest tournament\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c!-------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThe world's most prestigious tournament can either determine a national coach's success or failure. Only 20 managers have guided their team to World Cup glory, so what are their secrets? This book explores innovative strategies and clever schemes to uncover the secrets of the most exclusive club in international football. \u003cbr\u003eThey may silently plot on the bench or manically gesticulate from the sidelines, but what can the coach really do to influence their team's performance? Discover the tactical innovations and brilliant strategies, as well as the bizarre superstitions, psychological masterclasses and bonkers team-building regimes that managers have employed in the quest for that iconic trophy. \u003cbr\u003eCharting the successes, failures, dramas and controversies of 90 years of World Cup action through the insights of journalists, players and managers with first-hand experience of World Cup competition, this book comprehensively documents the lengths the man in the dugout will go to in order to bring home the greatest prize. \u003cbr\u003eThe book features contributions from leading World Cup stars, including Luiz Felipe Scolari, Geoff Hurst, Carlos Alberto Parreira, Pierre Littbarski, Roberto Martinez, Mick McCarthy, Tomas Brolin, Jamie Carragher, Alexi Lalas, Patrick Barclay, Raphael Honigstein and Graham Hunter.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 \u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.bloomsbury.com\/uk\/non-fiction\/sport-fitness\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Bloombury Sport \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHardback: 304 pages; Published July 21, 2022\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 147299079X\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 978-1472990792 \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/center\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JULY 2022","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54862317093244,"sku":null,"price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/How-to-Win-the-World-Cup.png?v=1736147065"},{"product_id":"world-cup-nuggets-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-world-cup","title":"World Cup Nuggets: Everything You Need To Know About The World Cup","description":"\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eSuperb great stories about the greatest tournament\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c!-------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eWho went on to win the World Cup despite losing their first match? What was the significance of the black bands that appeared around the goalposts in Argentina in 1978? Which two World Cups featured no red cards at all? Answers to all these and more in World Cup Nuggets: Everything you need to know about every World Cup - \"Richard’s writing is the perfect World Cup companion, witty and informative but never too earnest. Steal his nuggets and make yourself the most entertaining and well-informed of your friends in the pub chat this winter!’ - Andy Brassell.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 \u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/halcyonpublishing.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e Halcyon Publishing \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 192 pages\u003cbr\u003e Published October 24, 2022\u003cbr\u003eISBN-10: 191090614X\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 978-1910906149 \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c!-----------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/center\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2022","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54862324859260,"sku":null,"price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/WORLD-CUP-NUGGETS.png?v=1736148373"},{"product_id":"end-of-the-rainbow-englands-quest-for-glory-in-south-africa","title":"End of the Rainbow: England's Quest for Glory in South Africa","description":"\u003c!----------------------------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003eDust Jacket Protected with Archival System\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!---------------------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThe journey began in Baden-Baden and concluded with tears. The off-the-field circus in a German spa town during the 2006 tournament served as the foundation for England's 2010 World Cup odyssey. Reacting to public and media disdain for the antics of superstar players and their shopaholic partners, the Football Association began looking for a disciplinarian 'winner' to banish the aura of under-achievement left by the laissez-faire regimes of Sven-Goran Eriksson and Steve McClaren. \u003cbr\u003eThe search led to Fabio Capello. With a no-nonsense style, hailed as a throwback to a time before cash and the cult of celebrity transformed the national game, the Italian guided England through a near-perfect World Cup qualifying campaign. The FA, it seemed, had found their man of destiny, who could exploit the talent and curb the excesses of the \"rich young boys,\" as Capello termed them, that wore the Three Lions. \u003cbr\u003eThen, as the finals approached, fissures emerged in this bold new realm. Capello stripped John Terry of the captaincy for his alleged affair with a teammate's ex-partner. Replacement captain Rio Ferdinand withdrew, injured. \u003cbr\u003eAnd as England started falteringly in South Africa, strained relations between \"Don Fabio\" and certain players compounded the sense of a squad ill at ease in their isolated, Wag-free retreat. Award-winning sportswriter Oliver Holt was an outsider on the inside throughout England 's quest for global supremacy, witnessing at close proximity the roller-coaster of recrimination and redemption. End of the Rainbow, brimming with authoritative analysis, is the definitive story of the drama and intrigue behind Capello's war.\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 2010","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54865864917372,"sku":null,"price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/WORLDCUP2_0003.png?v=1736426822"},{"product_id":"crash-of-the-buffalo-the-tragedy-that-killed-a-football-team-and-rocked-the-world","title":"Crash of the Buffalo: The Tragedy that Killed a Football Team and Rocked the World","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003e\"The Team That Never Came Home \u003cbr\u003eAfrica's Greatest Sports Tragedy Finally Told\"\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn \"Crash of the Buffalo,\" Jay Mwamba masterfully weaves together one of sports history's most heartbreaking yet inspiring narratives. This meticulously researched account chronicles the devastating 1993 plane crash that claimed the lives of Zambia's national soccer team—a tragedy that rippled far beyond the borders of the African nation. \u003cbr\u003eMwamba's storytelling is both intimate and expansive. He reconstructs the final hours of the team with haunting detail, including an especially poignant interview with the sole person who boarded and then disembarked the doomed DHC-5D Buffalo military aircraft before its fatal flight. The author's background as a sports journalist shines through in his ability to capture both the technical details of the disaster and its profound human impact. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this book apart is its unflinching examination of the systemic failures that led to the crash. Mwamba reveals the disturbing fact that the aircraft had been grounded for four months with \"AOG\" (Aircraft on Ground) status due to serious technical faults—a detail that makes the tragedy feel all the more preventable. The absence of an official crash report, even three decades later, adds another layer of institutional negligence to an already devastating story. \u003cbr\u003eBut \"Crash of the Buffalo\" is more than just a chronicle of tragedy. The book's most compelling sections detail Zambia's remarkable phoenix-like rise from the ashes. Mwamba captures the raw emotion and sheer determination of a nation that, just ten weeks after losing its entire team, fielded a new squad that defeated Morocco. Even more remarkably, within eleven months of the disaster, this rebuilt team fought its way to the final of the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations—a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. \u003cbr\u003eThe author excels at providing historical context, painting a vivid picture of Zambia's emergence as an African football powerhouse before the crash. Through extensive interviews with surviving family members, football officials, and contemporaries, Mwamba reconstructs not just the events surrounding the crash, but the vibrant football culture that made the loss so devastating to the nation's psyche. \u003cbr\u003eWhat makes this account particularly compelling is Mwamba's ability to balance journalistic rigor with emotional resonance. He never sensationalizes the tragedy, instead letting the raw facts and personal testimonies speak for themselves. The book serves as both a memorial to the fallen and a critical examination of the circumstances that led to their deaths. \u003cbr\u003eThe narrative's only slight weakness lies in its occasional tendency to get bogged down in technical details, particularly in sections dealing with the aircraft's maintenance history. However, this thoroughness ultimately serves the book's larger purpose of documenting every aspect of this crucial chapter in African sports history. \u003cbr\u003eAs Leigh Montville notes in the book's foreword, this is indeed \"an epic tale of tragedy and resilience in a far, far-away land.\" Mwamba has produced not just a sports book, but a powerful meditation on loss, accountability, and the indomitable nature of the human spirit. \"Crash of the Buffalo\" stands as an essential addition to both sports literature and African history, ensuring that the memories of those lost will continue to inspire future generations. \u003cbr\u003eThis definitive account serves as both a requiem for the fallen and a celebration of Zambia's remarkable resilience. It's a story that needed to be told, and Mwamba has done it justice. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: May 26, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £16.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHardcover: 288 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1801509964\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1801509961\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e216 x 138 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"unitOfMeasure\"\u003e(mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!------------------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54887945306492,"sku":null,"price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/CRASH_OF_THE_BUFFALO_2025.png?v=1742836654"},{"product_id":"irelands-world-cup-2002","title":"Ireland's World Cup 2002","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eMcCarthy's World Cup Memoir\u003cbr\u003eWhen Irish Eyes Were Watching\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eMick McCarthy's \"Ireland's World Cup 2002\" provides an exhilarating and candid account of Ireland's journey in the 2002 FIFA World Cup, a tournament that saw the team reach the Round of 16 before being beaten by Spain. This book is more than just a chronicle of matches; it's a vivid exploration of the emotions, challenges, and triumphs experienced by the Irish team and their manager during this unforgettable summer. \u003cbr\u003eMcCarthy, whose storied career in football spans playing and managerial roles, brings his personal insights and experiences to the forefront in this book. His narrative begins with the qualifiers and takes readers through the intense pressure and global scrutiny faced by the team during the World Cup finals in Japan and Korea. McCarthy's account is honest and heartfelt, as he shares the highs and lows of the journey, including the infamous \"Saipan Incident\" that rocked the team and captivated the media. \u003cbr\u003eThe \"Saipan Incident,\" a pivotal moment in Ireland's World Cup story, is recounted with remarkable clarity and fairness. McCarthy delves into the conflict with Roy Keane, providing readers with a balanced perspective on the events that unfold. This incident serves as a testament to McCarthy's leadership and resilience, as he navigated through the turmoil to keep the team focused and united. \u003cbr\u003eThe book is lavishly illustrated with over 30 colour photos, capturing the essence of the tournament and bringing to life the emotions of the players and fans. These images complement McCarthy's vivid descriptions, allowing readers to feel as though they are part of the action, from the intensity of the matches to the camaraderie in the dressing room. \u003cbr\u003eMcCarthy's unwavering belief in his team and his dedication to maintaining Ireland's team spirit shine throughout the book. His leadership qualities are evident not only in his strategic decisions on the field but also in his ability to foster a sense of unity and purpose within the squad. The joy of their success and the shared experiences of the Irish squad are celebrated, making this book a tribute to the power of teamwork. \u003cbr\u003e\"Ireland's World Cup 2002\" is a captivating read for football enthusiasts and anyone interested in the dynamics of leadership under pressure. Mick McCarthy's engaging storytelling and insightful reflections offer a unique glimpse into the world of international football, making this book a valuable addition to any sports library. Whether you're reliving the excitement of the 2002 World Cup or discovering it for the first time, this book promises to be a rewarding journey. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished:  2002\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £9.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHardcover: 316 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUsed Book in very good condition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLavishly illustrated over 30 plates\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!------------------------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED 2002","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54902808183164,"sku":null,"price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/MICKMcCARTHY_0001.png?v=1737974592"},{"product_id":"five-in-a-row-scotland-at-the-1990-world-cup","title":"Five in a Row: Scotland at the 1990 World Cup","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eExperience the Thrilling Journey of Scotland in the 1990 World Cup\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eFive in a Row: Scotland at the 1990 World Cup is a hardcover publication by Shareef Abdallah, released on June 16, 2025.\u003cbr\u003eShareef Abdallah is a writer and blogger focused on football. Since 1981, he has been a steadfast supporter of Scotland. As a dedicated supporter of the Tartan Army, he has passionately accompanied Scotland on their journeys, with his inaugural tournament experience being Euro 1996. His blog, redglories.com, showcases a rich tapestry of narratives and images that capture the essence of iconic matches, remarkable goals, triumphs, and setbacks from the illustrious era of football in the 1980s and 1990s.\u003cbr\u003eExperience the remarkable saga of Scotland as they ventured to the 1990 World Cup in Italy. Discover the challenges faced, the thrilling matches, and the unforgettable goals that marked Scotland's fifth consecutive appearance on the world stage. \u003cbr\u003eIn 1986, Alex Ferguson found himself at the helm of a Scottish team that faced a calamitous World Cup campaign in Mexico. He chose to leave after only managing one goal and one point in three games, and a few months later he joined Manchester United. In a surprising turn of events, Andy Roxburgh, who formerly worked as a PE teacher and had no prior experience managing a league club, stepped in as his unexpected successor. “Who is Andy?” enquired the media. \u003cbr\u003eThe unexpected choice of Roxburgh for the position raises questions, especially when considering the other candidates in the running. Additionally, an evaluation of Roxburgh's approach to management and the experience of his assistant Craig Brown adds further depth to this surprising decision. \u003cbr\u003eThis article delves into the thrilling journey of Scotland's intense qualifying campaign, providing comprehensive game reports and insightful analysis. Did Roxburgh select the right team and strategies for the World Cup squad?\u003cbr\u003eDetailed accounts and insights: starting with the initial encounter against Costa Rica, moving through the triumphant match against Sweden, and culminating in the intense showdown with Brazil in Turin. The consequences that followed: Scotland's journey to Euro 1992 marked a significant milestone as they secured their place in their inaugural European Championship. \u003cbr\u003eThis work captures the essence of that unforgettable long hot summer through the narratives of both players and fans, providing a comprehensive and engaging portrayal. The book is essential reading for every Scottish football enthusiast and anyone who cherishes the legendary 1990 World Cup. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: June 16, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £18.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHardcover: 272 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1836801521\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836801528\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e222 x 144 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"unitOfMeasure\"\u003e(mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JUNE 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54933698609532,"sku":null,"price":18.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Five-in-a-Row.png?v=1744993826"},{"product_id":"shattered-dreams-sliding-doors-the-republic-of-ireland-s-1982-world-cup-qualifying-campaign","title":"Shattered Dreams, Sliding Doors: The Republic of Ireland’s 1982 World Cup Qualifying Campaign","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eWhen Ireland Almost Went to Spain \u003cbr\u003e(But Ended Up in the Local)\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eStories of near misses in sports, those moments where glory eludes reach, hold a unique poignancy. In \"Shattered Dreams, Sliding Doors\", Paul Little masterfully reconstructs one such tale: the Republic of Ireland's heartbreaking journey through the 1982 World Cup qualifying campaign. \u003cbr\u003eLittle, who previously delighted readers with his exploration of Dixie Dean's time at Sligo Rovers, brings the same keen eye for detail to this compelling narrative. But the novel isn't just a sports book; it's a time machine that transports readers back to Ireland in the early 1980s, a country grappling with economic depression while its football team dared to dream. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's greatest strength lies in its innovative approach to storytelling. Little's choice to write match descriptions in the present tense is truly inspired, evoking a sense of immediacy that transports readers to the stands, their hearts pounding with every near miss and contentious call. You can almost smell the wet grass and hear the roar of the crowd as he reconstructs all eight qualifying matches with vivid precision. \u003cbr\u003eThe transition from John Giles to Eoin Hand as manager emerges as a crucial subplot, handled with nuance and depth. Little draws from extensive research in Irish newspapers and television archives to paint a complete picture of the era, from squad selections to post-match reactions. The result feels less like reading history and more like living it. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this book apart is Little's personal touch. He weaves his childhood memories of 1980's Dublin throughout the narrative—the street games, the TV shows, and the textures of daily life—creating a rich tapestry that contextualises the football story within a broader cultural moment. These personal vignettes serve as a reminder that sports stories are always human stories at their core. \u003cbr\u003eThe \"what if\" chapter that closes the book offers a fascinating exercise in sporting speculation, featuring Eoin Hand's own reflections on potential alternate histories. It's a fitting end to a work that's as much about dreams and possibilities as it is about actual events. \u003cbr\u003eLittle's prose is sharp and evocative, managing to capture both the technical aspects of the beautiful game and its emotional impact on a nation's psyche. While the book will naturally appeal most to Irish football fans and those who lived through the era, its themes of hope, disappointment, and resilience speak to universal human experiences. \u003cbr\u003e\"Shattered Dreams, Sliding Doors\" is more than just a sports book — it's a cultural history, a memoir, and a love letter to a time when football offered escape and hope to a troubled nation. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of sports and society or a well-told tale of what might have been.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublished: June 9, 2025 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £18.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHardcover: 224 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: 1836801831\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: 978-1836801832\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 222 x 144 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e;\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JUNE 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54946694758780,"sku":"45MAIL","price":18.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Shattered-Dreams_-Sliding-Doors.png?v=1742822657"},{"product_id":"lennart-johansson-a-mate-among-bigwigs-and-trophies-aik-uefa-fifa-and-beyond","title":"Lennart Johansson : A Mate Among Bigwigs and Trophies: AIK, UEFA, FIFA and Beyond","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eThe Robin Hood of Football\u003cbr\u003eHow One Man Changed European Soccer Forever\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn this compelling autobiography, Lennart Johansson emerges not just as a football administrator but as a guardian of the beautiful game's soul. The timing of this English translation couldn't be more poignant—offering crucial insights into football governance at a moment when the sport faces unprecedented commercialisation. \u003cbr\u003eJohansson's journey from a working-class boy cycling to AIK matches to becoming UEFA's longest-serving president reads like a testament to integrity in an era often lacking it. His creation of the UEFA Champions League—widely considered his proudest achievement—revolutionized European football. Yet, what makes this book particularly fascinating is how it reveals the human side of a man who wielded enormous power but never lost touch with his roots. \u003cbr\u003eThe narrative, co-written with his friend Soeren 'Sulo' Karlsson, strikes a perfect balance between personal anecdotes and historical significance. Johansson's account of his 1998 FIFA presidential campaign against Sepp Blatter offers particularly illuminating insights into football politics. His candid reflections on this period reveal both the idealism and pragmatism that characterise his leadership style. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this autobiography apart is its authenticity. Unlike many sports memoirs that often feel sanitised, Johansson's voice comes through clearly—principled, occasionally stubborn, but always focused on football's broader social impact. His decision to direct his royalties to AIK, his childhood club, perfectly encapsulates the values he championed throughout his career. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's most powerful moments come when Johansson discusses his vision of football as a sport for everyone. His role in bringing English clubs back into European competitions demonstrated both his diplomatic skills and his understanding of football's cultural significance. These sections provide valuable lessons for current and future sports administrators. \u003cbr\u003eWhile the prose occasionally meanders, as many translated works do, the style actually adds to its charm, capturing Johansson's straightforward, no-nonsense approach to both life and football administration. The book's structure, moving between personal memories and professional achievements, keeps readers engaged while providing crucial context for understanding modern football's development. \u003cbr\u003e\"A Mate Among Bigwigs and Trophies\" is more than just a sports autobiography; it's a crucial historical document of football's transformation from a beloved sport into a global business, told by someone who fought to preserve its soul while adapting to changing times. For anyone interested in football administration, sports history, or simply the story of a man who never forgot his roots while reaching the sport's highest offices, this book is essential reading. \u003cbr\u003eThe timing of this English translation feels particularly relevant now, as football faces new challenges around super leagues, financial fair play, and broadcasting rights. Johansson's principles and experiences, detailed in these pages, offer valuable guidance for navigating these modern challenges while staying true to the sport's core values. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Publisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.newhavenpublishingltd.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eVisit New Haven Publishing\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: March 13, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £17.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 226 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e1915975107\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1915975102\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e229 x 152 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"unitOfMeasure\"\u003e(mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MARCH 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54955899060604,"sku":null,"price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Lennart-Johansson-2025.png?v=1740124389"},{"product_id":"the-road-to-wembley-1966-through-the-pages-of-charles-buchans-football-monthly","title":"The Road to Wembley 1966: Through the Pages of Charles Buchan's Football Monthly","description":"\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003e📚⚽ FlickThru Soccer Reads\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/eu7Cm_ZexGg?si=fBGoHSBUW-hE1Aiz\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eIt's Coming Home... \u003cbr\u003eThrough Your Letterbox!\u003cbr\u003eThe Ultimate 1966 World Cup Book\u003cbr\u003eWhen It Actually Did Come Home! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003c!--------------------------------------------------\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eSome stories never get old. England's 1966 World Cup victory is one of them. In \"The Road to Wembley 1966: Through the Pages of Charles Buchan's Football Monthly,\" Andrew Dolloway crafts something more than just another World Cup retrospective – he creates a time capsule that transports readers back to an era when football was on the cusp of becoming the global phenomenon we know today. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this book apart is its source material. Charles Buchan's Football Monthly wasn't just any sports magazine; it was the voice of football in 1950s and '60s Britain. By drawing from this contemporary archive, Dolloway offers readers something precious: the chance to experience England's journey to glory as it unfolded, free from the rose-tinted glasses of nostalgia. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's physical presentation matches its content's significance. Bound in dark red linen with gold-embossed lettering, it feels less like a mere book and more like a historical artifact. Its 190 pages are rich with color images that capture not just the matches, but the mood of a nation gradually daring to believe. \u003cbr\u003eStarting in 1951, the narrative traces England's fifteen-year journey to that sunny July afternoon at Wembley. It's a story of transformation – from the humbling defeat to Hungary in 1953 (the \"Match of the Century\") to the tactical revolution under Alf Ramsey. The book doesn't just focus on the triumphs; it explores the setbacks, the controversies, and the decisions that shaped English football's greatest achievement. \u003cbr\u003eThe photography deserves special mention. These aren't just action shots; they're moments frozen in time. There's a young Bobby Moore, yet to become captain, training at West Ham. There's Jimmy Greaves in his prime, before injury would cost him his place in the final. And of course, there's that iconic image of Moore hoisting the Jules Rimet Trophy, England's players scattered around him in various states of ecstasy. \u003cbr\u003eWhat makes this volume particularly valuable is its contemporaneous perspective. Rather than relying on memories polished by time, it draws on reports written when events were fresh, emotions raw, and outcomes uncertain. The result is a more honest, immediate account of how England became world champions. \u003cbr\u003eThe book's scope extends beyond just the players on the pitch. It captures the changing face of English football: the tactical innovations, the evolution of training methods, and the growing influence of television. Through its pages, we see football transforming from a working-class pastime to a national obsession. \u003cbr\u003eIf there's any criticism to be made, it might be that the book sometimes assumes a level of familiarity with the era that younger readers might not possess. A bit more context about Britain in the 1960s would have helped frame the achievement's cultural significance. \u003cbr\u003eBut this is a minor quibble. \"The Road to Wembley 1966\" brilliantly accomplishes its goal of documenting English football's greatest moment from the perspective of those who experienced it firsthand. For football historians, collectors, and fans of the beautiful game, this book isn't just a commemoration of England's World Cup victory – it's a portal to a pivotal moment in sporting history. \u003cbr\u003eThe inclusion of the team-signed memorabilia print (available separately) adds another layer of historical significance, featuring signatures from the entire squad, including those often-forgotten reserves who were as much a part of the triumph as the starting eleven. \u003cbr\u003eIn an age of instant replays and endless analysis, this book reminds us of a time when football writing was an art form, when matches were experienced through eloquent prose and carefully composed photographs. It's not just a record of England's greatest footballing achievement; it's a testament to how we used to experience, document, and celebrate the beautiful game. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c!--------------------------2025--------------------------\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Publisher: Max Media Publishing Ltd\u003cbr\u003ePublished: June 1st, 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £17.99 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHardcover: 190 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10:  \u003cspan\u003e0995478309\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-0995478305\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e295 x 210\u003c\/span\u003e (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Charles Buchan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54976650707324,"sku":null,"price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/The-Road-to-Wembley-1966.png?v=1740566774"},{"product_id":"last-boy-of-66-paperback-published-8th-may-2025","title":"Last Boy of ’66 ~ Paperback Published 8th May 2025","description":"\u003c!-----\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003ePaperback 304 pages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eThey Think It's All Over... \u003cbr\u003eBut The Memories Never Fade\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"font-size: medium;\"\u003eThe morning following our World Cup victory, I found myself cutting the lawn. It wasn't some grand gesture or attempt to stay grounded—it's just what you did on a Sunday in 1966. The entire experience following our World Cup victory made me reflect on my life sixty years later. We were just ordinary lads who happened to be rather talented at football. \u003cbr\u003eI remember standing in the tunnel at Wembley that day, the roar of ninety thousand fans sending vibrations through the concrete. Bobby Moore, our captain, stood tall as always, his talented hair immaculate even before kick-off. We weren't millionaires like today's players—we were working-class boys who earned £60 a match. Our boots were heavy leather, our shorts reached our knees, and our shirts could double their weight in rain. \u003cbr\u003eThe Germans were tough opponents, technically brilliant and physically imposing. When Wolfgang Weber equalised in the final minute of normal time, making it 2-2, I thought our chance had gone. But Alf Ramsey, cool as ever, simply said during the break, \"You've won it once; now go and win it again.\" \u003cbr\u003eThat famous moment in extra time—my second goal—still sparks debate. Is it true that the ball went over the line? Roger Hunt, who was closest, always said he saw it clearly go in, which is why he immediately turned away celebrating instead of following up. Is it true that the ball went overfried Dienst consulted his Russian linesman, Tofik Bakhramov, and the goal stood. The stadium erupted. \u003cbr\u003eLooking back now, what strikes me most is how different football was then. We engaged in the game out of passion and pride for the uniform. There were no agents, no sponsorship deals, and no social media. After training, we'd often pop into the local pub together—try suggesting that to today's Premier League managers! We formed bonds that lasted a lifetime, though sadly, many of my teammates are no longer with us. \u003cbr\u003eThe '66 squad came from an England that's vanished now—of factory workers and miners, of council houses and corner shops. We weren't celebrities in the modern sense; we were just footballers who happened to achieve something extraordinary. Perhaps that's why the victory meant so much to people. We were them, and they were us.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHere is what Sir Geoff Hurst has been doing in the last decade (2015-2025):\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003eSir Geoff Hurst has remained active in football and charity work over the past decade. As the last surviving member of England's 1966 World Cup final team, he has taken on an important role as a keeper of memories and football heritage. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003eKey activities include: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003e1. Theatre Tours: He's currently conducting his final theatre tour in 2025, titled \"The Last Man Standing, sharing stories from his remarkable career. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003e2. Charity Work: Since 2020, he has served as an ambassador for Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice in Cheltenham, a cause he holds dear, as the hospice provided care for his daughter Claire.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003e3. Commercial Partnerships: He has maintained his role as a brand ambassador for Budweiser, the official beer of the England football team. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003e4. Digital Advocacy: He's been working with AbilityNet charity to inspire seniors to embrace technology, sharing his experiences with digital adaptation. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003e5. Football Ambassador: He continues to attend England games at Wembley and makes regular personal appearances at football-related events. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(16, 111, 1);\"\u003eSir Geoff currently resides in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, with his wife Judith, whom he has been married to since 1964.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Publisher: Visit \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.penguin.co.uk\/about\/publishing-houses\/ebury\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eEbury Publishing\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 8, 2025\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice: £10.99\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaperback: 304 pages\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-10: \u003cspan\u003e152993849X\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1529938494\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 128 x 198 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55188556513660,"sku":null,"price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/LAST_MAN_STANDING.png?v=1746459110"},{"product_id":"2026-fifa-world-cup-guides-the-perfect-pair-every-match-with-the-adult-and-kids-official-guides","title":"2026 FIFA World Cup Guides The Perfect Pair Every Match with the Adult and Kids’ Official Guides","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-Large;\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003eExperience the World Cup Together\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(50, 98, 149);\"\u003eThe Essential Guides for Adults and Kids\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(50, 98, 149);\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThe 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a once-in-a-generation spectacle—a sprawling, history-making tournament across three nations, expanded teams, and an entirely new level of global excitement. To make every moment count, there’s no substitute for having not just one but both official guides at your fingertips. Keir Radnedge’s **FIFA World Cup 26: The Official Guide** delivers expert, behind-the-scenes analysis and rich historical context, perfectly complemented by Alex Rice’s interactive and imagination-firing **Kids’ Handbook**. With these two guides, your whole family will have everything they need to savor, understand, and get involved in every single kick and celebration. \u003cbr\u003eRadnedge brings trusted authority, deep-dive team profiles, and player spotlights to seasoned fans—while Rice’s kids’ guide transforms the tournament into an adventure of games, puzzles, and hands-on football fun. Put together, these books turn every match into an opportunity: adults can enjoy Radnedge’s insightful strategy breakdowns and fill-in results tracker, while younger fans chart their own World Cup journey with quizzes, progress charts, and creative activities. This is more than just watching football; it’s becoming part of the action, side-by-side with your family. \u003cbr\u003eFor parents, there’s nothing like sharing the excitement of the World Cup with your kids. With Radnedge’s comprehensive guide, you’ll have all the facts and figures you need to fuel spirited debates and cheer on players. And with Rice’s handbook at hand, your child’s questions turn into teachable moments—and their engagement goes beyond the screen, into hands-on learning and memory-making. Both guides together foster a deeper love for the game, uniting experienced fans and new supporters with fresh energy. \u003cbr\u003eDon’t settle for just following the World Cup—live it, learn it, and remember it together. This pair of official guides is the only complete toolkit for 2026: a masterclass for adult fans, and a playground for kids discovering the magic of world football. Make this World Cup unforgettable for your entire family—grab both guides and bring the world’s biggest sporting event to life on every page.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003ePOSTAGE FREE (within UK)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 25, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £24.99 \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003efor The Pair\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTariff Codes: 49019900\u003cbr\u003eLavishly illustrated\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55494760235388,"sku":null,"price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/2026-FIFA-World-Cup-Official-Guides-Order-Now.png?v=1763211782"},{"product_id":"the-world-cup-the-complete-history","title":"The World Cup: The Complete History","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eYour Ultimate World Cup Encyclopedia \u003cbr\u003eFrom 1930 to Germany 2006\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIf you live and breathe football, this is the book you’re going to keep on your coffee table all World Cup long. \"No Football Fan Can Be Without In World Cup Year Zoob\" isn’t just a collection of stats and trivia—it’s a deep dive into the blood, sweat, and glory that make the World Cup the planet’s greatest sporting drama. Flip through the pages and you’ll find every player, every goal, and every jaw-dropping moment from Uruguay in 1930, right up to the final whistle before Germany 2006 kicks off. \u003cbr\u003eAre you curious about the legends who have earned the Golden Boot? Want to know how the underdogs from Africa made history in 2006? This book’s got you covered, whether you’re a diehard stat collector or just want to relive the magic of Hurst’s hat trick in ’66, Pele’s poetry in motion, Lineker’s sharpness, Gascoigne’s tears, Zidane’s brilliance, or Ronaldo’s comeback. It’s a definitive record and a celebration rolled into one—the ultimate companion for every fan as nations collide and new heroes are made. \u003cbr\u003eEvery four years, the World Cup unites the globe—and this encyclopaedia captures every detail and emotion. With player profiles, match reports, and the kind of stats you’ll be quoting to your mates for years, it’s the only book you’ll need to settle arguments and fuel the fever. From classic rivalries to breakout stars, it’s all here, waiting for you to explore, remember, and obsess over until the next kickoff. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED 2006","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55575640637820,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/WORLD-CUP_0001.png?v=1753441039"},{"product_id":"shocking-brazil-six-games-that-shook-the-world-cup","title":"Shocking Brazil: Six Games That Shook the World Cup","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eSix Games \u003cbr\u003eThat Shook the World Cup\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThe Brazilian game has become synonymous with excellence, success and beautiful, irresistible football. Supporters from every part of the globe can recount joyful tales about Brazil's unmatched achievements, especially those of World Cup glory, unlike England fans who have endured almost fifty years of hurt. But few realise that the most crucial transformations undergone by Brazilian football came as a direct result of Seleção's failures.\u003cbr\u003eShocking Brazil looks at six crucial World Cup campaigns that radically altered the face of Brazilian football and that had repercussions far beyond the sport. Behind ignominy lurk narratives of racism, corruption, authoritarianism, corporate power and greed. \u003cbr\u003eThis tour de force through the history of Brazilian football, told through the prisms of these six famous defeats, is by turns fascinating, enlightening, shocking, and utterly compelling. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: red;\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 FREE POSTAGE\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: Arena Sport \u003cbr\u003ePrice :£19.99\u003cbr\u003ePublished: 2014\u003cbr\u003eSoftcover: 240 pages\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED 2014","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55575694475644,"sku":null,"price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/WORLD-CUP_0003.png?v=1753441708"},{"product_id":"the-fifa-world-cup-a-history-of-the-planets-biggest","title":"The FIFA World Cup: A History of the Planet's Biggest","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003e2026 World Cup Edition\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e The Ultimate Guide to the FIFA World Cup History\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eby Clemente A. Lisi \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Verdana;\"\u003eFew sporting events match the intensity and spectacle of the FIFA World Cup, where soccer’s elite national teams clash every four years for global supremacy. In his authoritative work, The FIFA World Cup: A History of the Planet's Biggest Sporting Event, 2026 Edition, Clemente A. Lisi delivers the definitive account of this legendary tournament. Lisi’s deep knowledge as a veteran soccer reporter shines through every page, as he traces the World Cup’s thrilling evolution from its humble beginnings in 1930 to the modern era, culminating in a detailed preview of the 2026 tournament, which will be uniquely co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.\n\u003cbr\u003e\nLisi’s writing captivates readers with vivid descriptions of iconic matches and unforgettable moments, such as Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal against England in 1986 and the emotional spectacle of Nelson Mandela’s appearance at the 2010 final in South Africa. His meticulous research and first-hand interviews provide fresh insights into the lives of soccer legends like Pelé, Lionel Messi, and Maradona, while also highlighting the emergence of new stars and the dramatic rise of women’s and youth teams worldwide. By weaving in personal stories from his many years covering the tournament, Lisi ensures each World Cup edition feels immediate and alive.\n\u003cbr\u003e\nBeyond the pitch, Clemente A. Lisi does not shy away from the complex realities that have shaped soccer’s biggest stage. He objectively examines controversies such as the infamous FIFA corruption scandal, showing how governance and politics have influenced the world’s most popular sport. Lisi’s balanced perspective and journalistic integrity make his book a trusted resource for both die-hard soccer fans and newcomers eager to understand the tournament’s broad social and cultural impact.\n\u003cbr\u003e\nFor anyone searching for a comprehensive, SEO-optimized history of the FIFA World Cup, Clemente A. Lisi’s book is an essential read. It stands out for its engaging storytelling, thorough analysis, and celebration of soccer’s power to unite nations. Whether you’re reliving classic finals, discovering the impact of technological innovations like VAR, or looking ahead to the future of the sport, The FIFA World Cup: A History of the Planet's Biggest Sporting Event offers unmatched insight into the planet’s most-watched competition.\n \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 255);\"\u003eThis book will be delivered a few days after the publishing date.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 28, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: Visit \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.bloomsbury.com\/uk\/academic\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eBloomsbury Academic (UK)\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePrice: £16.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 424 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e979-8216275275\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 152 x 228 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55768244060540,"sku":null,"price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/The-FIFA-World-Cup-A-History-of-the-Planet_s-Biggest.png?v=1758291642"},{"product_id":"winning-pitch-canadas-search-for-world-cup-success-and-beyond","title":"Winning Pitch: Canada's Search for World Cup Success and Beyond","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eHow Canada Plans to Make History\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eat the 2026 FIFA World Cup\u003cbr\u003eCanada’s World Cup Ambitions Revealed \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cfont face=\"Verdana\"\u003eWhen the FIFA World Cup returns to North America in 2026, the soccer world will turn its focus toward Canada, a nation with a rich history and a burning ambition to make an impact on the global stage. In Winning Pitch: Canada's Search for World Cup Success and Beyond, acclaimed author and soccer executive Murray Mollard provides an in-depth exploration of Canada’s journey through the highs and lows of international soccer. From the heartbreaks of the 1986 and 2022 FIFA World Cups to the strategic overhaul underway for 2026, Mollard captures the drama, hope, and determination that define Canadian men’s soccer. \u003cbr\u003eMurray Mollard’s expertise as a former UBC champion player, coach, and governor shines through every page, offering readers a nuanced perspective on the evolution of the Canadian soccer system. His interviews with top players, coaches, and executives bring to light the inside stories behind Canada’s recent rise and the critical lessons learned from past World Cup campaigns. Mollard’s regular contributions to major newspapers like the Vancouver Sun and The Province have made him a trusted voice in the soccer community, and his book stands as a testament to his passion and knowledge. \u003cbr\u003eCentral to Winning Pitch is Mollard’s analysis of the strategic blueprint guiding Canada’s preparations for 2026. He dissects the development pathways, youth academies, and leadership culture that are transforming the landscape of Canadian soccer. Through his eyes, readers see how a nation once considered an outsider is now building the systems and mindset necessary for World Cup success. Mollard’s deep understanding of player development, coaching innovation, and governance offers a rare insider perspective for soccer fans, athletes, and analysts alike. \u003cbr\u003eFor anyone seeking to understand not just Canadian soccer, but the broader North American World Cup narrative, Winning Pitch is essential reading. Murray Mollard’s thoughtful and engaging writing ensures the book is packed with valuable insights and compelling stories. As Canada gears up to face the world’s best teams in 2026, Mollard’s work is both a celebration of how far the game has come and a roadmap for what lies ahead in the beautiful game.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 255);\"\u003eThis book will be delivered a few days after the publishing date.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 26, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: Visit \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/harbourpublishing.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eHarbour Publishing\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePrice: £14.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 240 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1998526598\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 229 x 152 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/font\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55768403739004,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/WINNING-PITCH.png?v=1763095500"},{"product_id":"2026-world-cup-guide-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-first-48-team-fifa-tournament","title":"2026 World Cup Guide: Everything You Need to Know About the First 48-Team FIFA Tournament","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xxx-large;\"\u003eThe Ultimate Guide\u003cbr\u003e2026 FIFA World Cup \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Verdana;\"\u003eThe 2026 World Cup Guide by Paul Zillman is the definitive resource for anyone eager to dive into the excitement and complexity of the first-ever 48-team FIFA tournament. As Michael Nelson highlights, this edition goes beyond simple match schedules, weaving together the stories behind the historic expansion and the global implications for football. Readers are given a front-row seat to the drama of qualification, the strategies of legendary teams like Argentina, Brazil, England, and France, and the challenges posed by North America's vast geography and diverse climates. The book is a treasure trove of insights, making it a must-read for both die-hard soccer fans and newcomers seeking to understand the beautiful game's latest evolution. \u003cbr\u003ePaul Zillman’s writing stands out for its clarity and depth, features that Michael Nelson, a respected voice in sports writing, consistently praises. Nelson notes how Zillman masterfully breaks down the new 12-group format, explains the impact of advanced technology like VAR and AI analytics, and brings to life the emotional journeys of rising stars and retiring legends. With detailed analysis on every aspect—from Adidas Trionda, the official match ball, to the cultural significance of the tournament’s music—Zillman’s guide is both informative and highly readable. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets this World Cup apart is its scale and ambition. Nelson emphasizes Zillman’s thorough coverage of the tournament’s tri-nation hosting across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, exploring the political and logistical challenges involved. The book doesn’t shy away from the controversies, including protests linked to U.S. immigration policies and the intersection of sport with social issues. By tackling these topics, Zillman positions his guide as not just a handbook, but a thoughtful exploration of soccer’s role in a rapidly changing world. \u003cbr\u003eIn every chapter, Zillman’s passion for football shines through, a quality that Michael Nelson recognizes as essential for engaging readers. Whether you’re interested in tactical predictions, travel tips for host cities, or the cultural heartbeat of the tournament, The 2026 World Cup Guide delivers. With its blend of historical context, expert analysis, and vivid storytelling, this book is an indispensable companion for anyone looking to make the most of the world’s biggest football event. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: July 4, 2025\u003cbr\u003ePublisher:‎ Independently published\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £19.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 175 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9798291014783\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e229 x 152 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"unitOfMeasure\"\u003e(mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED JULY 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55771229323644,"sku":null,"price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/2026-World-Cup-Guide.png?v=1758358401"},{"product_id":"the-ultimate-unofficial-world-cup-book","title":"The Ultimate Unofficial World Cup Book","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xxx-large;\"\u003eThe Must-Have Guide\u003cbr\u003eFIFA 2026 World Cup!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Verdana;\"\u003eIn \"The Ultimate Unofficial World Cup Book: Legends, Stats, and Stories from Soccer's Biggest Game,\" celebrated author Maria S. Barbo crafts an exciting, kid-friendly journey through the magic of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As a professional teen writer with a deep passion for soccer and history, I, Michael Nelson, can confidently say this guide is a must-have for young fans and curious newcomers alike. Barbo’s trademark storytelling shines as she blends historic moments, thrilling matchups, and record-breaking stats, making the world’s most beloved tournament come alive on every page. The book’s vibrant, full-color photos and engaging facts make it easy for readers aged 8–12 to grasp the drama and spectacle of global football. \u003cbr\u003eMaria S. Barbo’s deep dive into the World Cup’s rich legacy is more than just a recounting of famous goals and unforgettable games—it’s a celebration of the players, coaches, and teams that have shaped the sport. Readers will find profiles of legendary stars, stories of underdog triumphs, and highlights from powerhouse teams like Argentina, Brazil, France, England, Mexico, Canada, and the United States. As someone who strives to inspire young athletes and sports enthusiasts, I admire how Barbo brings each story to life, giving context to every stat and every victory. She captures the camaraderie and competitive spirit that define the World Cup, while making the complex history of soccer accessible and entertaining. \u003cbr\u003eOne of the book’s greatest strengths is its focus on inclusivity. Maria S. Barbo ensures that women’s soccer, girls’ teams, and academy squads receive the attention they deserve, highlighting their rising influence on the global game. As a writer who values the role of storytelling in shaping our understanding of sports, I appreciate Barbo’s commitment to celebrating diverse voices and achievements. The book also explores the evolution of soccer technology, such as VAR and AI analytics, adding a modern twist to the tournament’s timeless appeal. Packed with must-know trivia, this guide keeps readers informed and inspired as they follow the journey to the 2026 World Cup. \u003cbr\u003eMaria S. Barbo’s expertise and engaging style make \"The Ultimate Unofficial World Cup Book\" an essential companion for anyone excited about soccer’s biggest stage. As a fellow advocate for sports education, I can’t recommend this book enough for young readers who want to learn, dream, and be part of the global football community. Dive into this ultimate guide and discover why the World Cup continues to capture hearts and imaginations across generations. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 255);\"\u003eThis book will be delivered a few days after the publishing date.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: April 9, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: Visit \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/harpercollins.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eHarperPop\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePrice: £10.99\u003cbr\u003eHardback: 128 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-0063468405\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 254 x 686 (mm)\u003cbr\u003eReading age : 8 - 12 years \u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED APRIL 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55771489173884,"sku":"0063468409","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/The-Ultimate-Unofficial-World-Cup-Book.png?v=1758371245"},{"product_id":"immortal-moments-the-world-cup","title":"Immortal Moments: The World Cup","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xxx-large;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003eFrom Maradona to Messi \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large; color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e The Definitive World Cup Photo Collection \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Verdana;\"\u003eIn \"Immortal Moments: The World Cup\", author Rick Barba delivers a stunning tribute to the beautiful game, capturing the unforgettable highlights that define soccer history. Through evocative storytelling and breathtaking full-colour photography, Barba brings every legendary World Cup moment to life, from Uruguay’s inaugural triumph in 1930 to Lionel Messi’s crowning achievement in 2022. This coffee-table book is a must-have for soccer fans, offering a unique window into the passion and drama that have shaped the FIFA World Cup for nearly a century. Michael Nelson, a celebrated Professional Teen writer and sports historian, praises Barba’s attention to detail and commitment to celebrating the legends who have made football the world’s most beloved sport. \u003cbr\u003eBarba’s work is more than a collection of iconic goals and shocking upsets; it’s a deep dive into the rich tapestry of World Cup history. The book covers pivotal events like Diego Maradona’s ‘Goal of the Century’ and Zinedine Zidane’s infamous headbutt, providing thoughtful analysis and context that will engage both new fans and lifelong enthusiasts. Michael Nelson, known for his engaging sports analysis, highlights how Barba’s approach brings out the camaraderie, excitement, and historical significance behind each moment. Readers are treated to compelling narratives that entertain and educate, reflecting Nelson’s belief in the power of storytelling to make sports history accessible and inspiring. \u003cbr\u003e\"Immortal Moments: The World Cup\" is perfectly timed as the world looks ahead to the 2026 World Cup. Barba’s celebration of legendary teams—like Brazil’s 1970 squad and the tactical revolution of Total Football—offers readers a deeper appreciation of the evolution of international soccer. Michael Nelson commends Barba’s ability to blend striking visuals with insightful commentary, making this volume an essential companion for anyone preparing to witness new World Cup milestones. The book's deluxe hardcover design and high-quality photography ensure its longevity, much like the moments it captures. \u003cbr\u003eWhether you’re reliving the greatest victories or reflecting on the sport’s most dramatic controversies, \"Immortal Moments: The World Cup\" invites fans to experience the magic of the tournament all over again. Michael Nelson’s endorsement of Rick Barba’s work underscores its value for those who seek to truly understand and celebrate the game’s global impact. As anticipation builds for 2026, there's no better way to honour the tradition and legacy of the World Cup than with this extraordinary collection. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 255);\"\u003eThis book will be delivered a few days after the publishing date.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: April 28, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: Visit \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/insighteditions.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eInsight Editions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePrice: £29.99\u003cbr\u003eHardback: 304 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9798886639995\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e304. x 247. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"unitOfMeasure\"\u003e(mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED APRIL 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55771734835580,"sku":null,"price":29.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Immortal-Moments-COVER-2026.png?v=1758378922"},{"product_id":"world-cup-history-politics-and-art-of-the-beautiful-game","title":"World Cup! History, Politics, and Art of the Beautiful Game","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eHow Soccer Changed the World\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eThe Politics and Art of the Beautiful Game\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Verdana;\"\u003eIn World Cup! History, Politics, and Art of the Beautiful Game, Daniel Noemi Voionmaa curates an extraordinary collection of essays that illuminate soccer’s global influence, weaving together history, politics, and the artistry that defines “the beautiful game”. As a passionate sports historian, Michael Nelson celebrates how this anthology captures the drama and complexity of the FIFA World Cup, tracing its evolution from Uruguay in 1930 to the high-stakes spectacle of Qatar 2022. Nelson’s insightful analysis underscores Voionmaa’s commitment to presenting football not merely as a sport, but as a social phenomenon that shapes—and is shaped by—national identity, economic forces, and political struggle. \u003cbr\u003eSoccer’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to unite diverse nations, cultures, and communities, a theme expertly explored by Voionmaa and highlighted by Nelson. The book studies football’s role as a tool of political expression—how matches have mirrored and even ignited real-world conflicts, from fictitious wars to the infamous events surrounding the 1978 Argentina World Cup. Nelson commends Voionmaa’s multidimensional approach, which embraces perspectives from powerhouses like England and Argentina, as well as from emerging football nations such as Israel and India, reflecting the sport’s truly global reach. \u003cbr\u003eBeyond the stadium, Nelson draws attention to the essay’s exploration of football in the arts—how poetry, literature, and visual culture have immortalised the World Cup’s most memorable moments. Voionmaa’s editorial vision ensures that gender issues, nationalism, and the neoliberal transformation of football are all examined with nuance, offering readers a colourful and creative “fresco” of the beautiful game’s impact. Nelson’s engaging storytelling and expert commentary make this volume essential reading for fans and scholars alike. \u003cbr\u003eAs we look ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Nelson encourages readers to engage with Voionmaa’s anthology as both a historical record and a living conversation about the future of football. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or a newcomer intrigued by the sport’s cultural significance, World Cup! History, Politics, and Art of the Beautiful Game offers a vibrant, interdisciplinary perspective that will deepen your appreciation for soccer’s role in shaping our world. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: September 30, 2025\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(22, 75, 22);\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003ePublisher: Visit \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/vernonpress.com\/\" style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eVernon Press.\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePrice: £57\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 252 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9781836801894\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e229 x 152 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"unitOfMeasure\"\u003e(mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003eHardback Edition Available: A hardback edition of the World Cup! History, Politics, and Art of the Beautiful Game was published in June 2025, priced at £79.99. To purchase or for more information, please email us at\u003c\/span\u003e \u003ca href=\"mailto:sales@soccerbooks.co.uk\"\u003esales@soccerbooks.co.uk\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 2025","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55773669294460,"sku":null,"price":57.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/World-Cup-History-Politics.png?v=1758437989"},{"product_id":"no-show-the-world-cup-teams-that-never-were","title":"No Show: The World Cup Teams that Never Were","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003eThe Forgotten Legends of World Cup Qualifying Revealed\u003cbr\u003eDiscover the Greatest World Cup Teams That Never Made It \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn \"No Show: The World Cup Teams that Never Were,\" author James Bennett crafts a compelling narrative around the heartbreak and drama that defines World Cup qualifying. Drawing on his deep experience writing about football for outlets like Sandals for Goalposts, Metro, and Unibet, Bennett uncovers the untold stories of soccer's greatest teams that never made it to the world’s biggest stage. From continental giants like England in 1978 and Scotland in 1970 to legendary players such as George Best and Alfredo di Stéfano, the book explores how even the brightest stars and most storied nations can fall short of their World Cup dreams. \u003cbr\u003eBennett’s expertise shines as he dives into the unique challenges faced by African and Asian teams, giving special insight into the global politics and refereeing decisions that have shaped the landscape of international soccer. The author’s background covering African football allows him to bring to life the struggles and near-misses of teams often overlooked in mainstream coverage, making \"No Show\" a must-read for fans eager to understand the full scope of the sport’s history. His passion for the game and meticulous research ensure that each tale feels both personal and universal, resonating with anyone who loves the beautiful game. \u003cbr\u003e\"No Show\" doesn’t just recount the famous near-misses of players like Eric Cantona and George Weah; it also delves into the emotional rollercoaster experienced by fans and nations alike. Bennett’s storytelling captures the agony of last-minute goals, controversial refereeing decisions, and the heartbreak of coming so close to World Cup qualification. The stories of Wales in 1986 or Johan Cruyff’s brush with controversy during a crucial qualifier are presented with a richness that keeps readers hooked and eager to learn more about football’s lost legends. \u003cbr\u003eFor anyone searching for a definitive account of World Cup qualifying drama, James Bennett’s \"No Show\" stands out as both an authoritative and entertaining read. This book is a treasure trove of soccer history, offering new perspectives on powerhouses and underdogs alike. Whether you’re a die-hard football supporter, a student of the game, or a newcomer seeking to understand the World Cup’s magnetic pull, Bennett’s work provides a vivid patchwork of soccer stories that have shaped the sport, even when the teams never made it to the final tournament. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: March 16, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £19.99\u003cbr\u003eHardback: 320 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9781836802358\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 22 x 14 .2.9 cm\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MARCH 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55832810226044,"sku":"45 mail","price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/No-Show-The-World-Cup-Teams-that-Never-Were.png?v=1759570856"},{"product_id":"mundiales-a-south-american-history-of-the-world-cup","title":"Mundiales: A South American History of the World Cup","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: large;\"\u003eThe Untold South American Stories Behind Every World Cup\u003cbr\u003eVickery \u0026amp; Biram Reveal the Drama and Glory of Mundiales \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn \"Mundiales: A South American History of the World Cup,\" authors Tim Vickery and Mark Biram deliver a sweeping narrative that recasts the World Cup through the lens of South American football. Vickery, renowned as the BBC’s voice of South American football and a fixture on Brazilian television, combines decades of insider expertise with Biram’s scholarly depth as a leading academic on Latin American sport and identity. Together, they explore how the beautiful game became intertwined with the continent’s political context, cultural identity, and national pride, offering a unique perspective on football history that is both engaging and authoritative. \u003cbr\u003eThe book’s vivid storytelling captures the artistry and grit that have defined South American soccer, from Uruguay’s Olympic triumphs in 1924 and 1928 to the canonization of Lionel Messi in Qatar. Vickery and Biram highlight the pivotal moments when nations found themselves through football, detailing how the World Cup became a platform for myth, tragedy, and glory. Their meticulous research, drawing on Spanish and Portuguese sources, brings to life the legendary figures and unforgettable matches that have shaped the tournament’s legacy. \u003cbr\u003e\"Mundiales\" stands out by blending football drama with nuanced analysis, showing how South America not only hosted and won the World Cup but also fundamentally shaped the tournament’s global significance. The authors’ decades of immersion in South American football culture allow them to offer fresh perspectives previously unseen in English. Their gripping narrative makes complex historical and cultural dynamics accessible to any reader, from die-hard fans to newcomers seeking to understand the world’s most popular sport. \u003cbr\u003eWith a foreword by renowned football historian David Goldblatt, this definitive account affirms the enduring love affair between South America and the World Cup. \"Mundiales\" is a must-read for anyone passionate about soccer, international competition, and the ways sport can reflect and reshape nations. Vickery and Biram’s collaboration not only celebrates the continent’s rich football heritage but elevates the conversation about what the World Cup truly means in the global imagination.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: March 9, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £25\u003cbr\u003eHardback: 432 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9781836802426\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 240 x 160 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MARCH 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55832822350204,"sku":"45mail","price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Mundiales-A-South-American-History-of-the-World-Cup.png?v=1759572590"},{"product_id":"sixty-years-of-the-world-cup-reflections-on-football-s-greatest-show-on-earth","title":"Sixty Years of the World Cup: Reflections on Football’s Greatest Show on Earth","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eRelive Six Decades of World Cup Magic \u003cbr\u003eBrian Barwick’s Unforgettable Memoir\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn Sixty Years of the World Cup: Reflections on Football’s Greatest Show on Earth, acclaimed author and legendary broadcaster Brian Barwick OBE takes readers on a captivating journey through the rich history of football’s most celebrated tournament. Barwick’s unparalleled experience as a leading figure in BBC Sport, ITV, and as chief executive of the FA allows him to provide unmatched insight into the drama, triumph, and evolution of the FIFA World Cup. From the unforgettable 1966 tournament where England clinched their historic victory, to the tactical innovations and global icons that have shaped football across six decades, Barwick’s writing brings to life both the magic on the pitch and the intrigue behind the scenes. Barwick’s reflections are particularly compelling when recounting firsthand stories from 16 World Cup tournaments, spanning from 1962 to 2022. He delves into football’s greatest and most controversial moments, revealing insider perspectives on legendary matches and iconic players. Readers are treated to unique anecdotes, such as his personal experience covering England’s World Cup win, and the fierce broadcast battles between BBC and ITV that defined the era’s sports media landscape. Barwick’s account of the 1990 World Cup, paired with the cultural phenomenon of Pavarotti’s “Nessun Dorma,” illustrates how football transcended sport to become a worldwide sensation. The book skillfully interweaves soccer’s central themes—teamwork, national pride, controversy, and unforgettable matches—with Barwick’s signature warmth and candor. His leadership at the FA, including his work with England managers and the launch of the Respect campaign, highlights his lasting positive impact on the game. Barwick’s deep knowledge and passion for football shine through every chapter, making this essential reading for fans eager to understand how the World Cup has shaped global soccer culture. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or a newcomer drawn to the spectacle of the World Cup, Sixty Years of the World Cup offers both nostalgia and fresh insight. With its blend of personal stories, historical analysis, and an insider’s view of broadcasting’s role in football’s evolution, Brian Barwick’s book stands as a definitive tribute to the beautiful game. Dive into the electrifying world of soccer’s greatest show on earth, relive the most memorable World Cup moments, and experience the legacy of football through the eyes of a true industry pioneer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 255);\"\u003eThis book will be delivered a few days after the publishing date.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 25, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £12.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 256 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9781836802853\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 240 x 160 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55834075103612,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Sixty-Years-of-the-World-Cup.png?v=1759599732"},{"product_id":"66-a-year-in-time","title":"1966 : The Year that Changed Everything from Fashion to Football","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eA Game, A Year, A Revolution\u003cbr\u003eThe Story of 1966 with Michael Calvin \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003e1966 : The Year that Changed Everything from Fashion to Football, award-winning author Michael Calvin delivers more than just a chronicle of the 1966 football World Cup—he crafts a sweeping narrative set against the backdrop of seismic global change. Calvin’s exceptional storytelling weaves together the on-field drama of the tournament with the era’s defining events: the Beatles’ meteoric rise, Martin Luther King’s Civil Rights Movement, the intensifying Vietnam War, and the unyielding tensions of the Cold War. His ability to link the world’s most popular sport with these pivotal moments in history makes this book an essential read for soccer fans and history enthusiasts alike. \u003cbr\u003eMichael Calvin’s insight and depth shine as he explores not just the athletic prowess of the teams—England, West Germany, Uruguay, Argentina, Portugal, Soviet Union, North Korea, and Hungary—but also the cultural and political weight each carried. With London declared a “swinging city,” and icons like John Lennon and John F. Kennedy looming large, Calvin demonstrates how football became a symbol of both unity and rivalry among nations striving to redefine themselves. He artfully connects the sporting triumphs to the broader social transformations, from China’s Cultural Revolution to the ongoing space race, offering a vivid portrait of a world at a crossroads. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets Michael Calvin apart is his ability to humanize history. He draws on the stories of individuals—players, leaders, and visionaries—whose actions on and off the pitch reflected the hopes, fears, and ambitions of their countries. The 1966 World Cup, as Calvin shows, was more than a competition; it was a stage where national identity, political ambition, and the universal language of soccer collided. His narrative brings into focus the lasting impact of that summer, not only on the sport but on the very fabric of international relations. \u003cbr\u003eWith '66: A Year in Time, Michael Calvin once again affirms his reputation as one of the most insightful and influential voices in sports writing. His nuanced analysis, engaging prose, and deep understanding of both soccer and society ensure that readers come away with a richer appreciation of how a single year—and a single tournament—reshaped the world. This book is a testament to Calvin’s gift for turning history into a living, breathing story, making the events of 1966 as relevant today as they were then.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 255);\"\u003eThis book will be delivered a few days after the publishing date.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 28, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003eGreat Reads, Endless Choices Visit\u003c\/span\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.randomhousebooks.com\/imprint\/bantam-books\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eBantam Books\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePrice: £22\u003cbr\u003eHardback: 288 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-0857508638\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e15.6 x 4 x 24 cm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55846740328828,"sku":null,"price":22.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/1966-The-Year-that-Changed-Everything.png?v=1773823115"},{"product_id":"that-world-cup-guy-from-spain-1982-to-usa-2026-one-fans-incredible-journey","title":"That World Cup Guy: From Spain 1982 to USA 2026, One Fan's Incredible Journey","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eFrom Spain 1982 to USA 2026\u003cbr\u003eOne Superfan’s Unbelievable Journey \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eAndy Milne’s “That World Cup Guy: From Spain 1982 to USA 2026, One Fan’s Incredible Journey” is the ultimate soccer memoir for football fans and travel lovers alike. As an England superfan and viral sensation, Andy Milne offers a unique, evolving view of the FIFA World Cup, spanning more than forty years and nine tournaments across the globe. From his first taste of World Cup magic in Spain 1982 to the electrifying atmosphere of the USA 2026 qualifiers, Milne’s infectious passion for the global game shines through every page. His storytelling is rich with essential soccer keywords—World Cup, England, FIFA, global fan culture, and unforgettable matches—making this a must-read for anyone searching for authentic football adventures. \u003cbr\u003eMilne’s book is more than just a chronicle of World Cup results; it’s a vibrant exploration of football culture and human connection. Journeying from sleeping rough in Spain to dancing in the streets of Rio, Andy captures the unpredictability and joy of the world’s greatest sporting event. Each chapter immerses readers in the unique cultural snapshots of host nations, from Brazilian BBQs and Italian piazzas to Thai beach bars. Through Milne’s eyes, the World Cup becomes not just a tournament, but a global celebration that fosters community, friendship, and sometimes even a little mischief. \u003cbr\u003eWhat sets Andy Milne apart from other soccer writers is his fan-first perspective and knack for storytelling. He relives surreal moments—like sneaking into a stadium as a Romanian journalist or encountering football legends and even drug smugglers—with honesty, humor, and warmth. Milne’s viral fame during Qatar 2022 introduced him to millions, but his enduring gift is making readers feel like they’re right there beside him, sharing every high and low, every goal and heartbreak, every unpredictable twist on the road to football immortality. \u003cbr\u003eAbove all, “That World Cup Guy” is a love letter to the beautiful game and the people who make it extraordinary. Andy Milne’s voice is authentic and engaging, bringing together fans of all nations, ages, and backgrounds. Whether you’re a die-hard England supporter, a casual football fan, or a travel enthusiast searching for your next adventure, Milne’s memoir is sure to inspire, entertain, and remind you why soccer is truly the world’s game.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 255);\"\u003eThis book will be delivered a few days after the publishing date.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 25, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £14.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 256 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836802860\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e198 x 129 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"unitOfMeasure\"\u003e(mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55847140753788,"sku":"35MAIL","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/That-World-Cup-Guy.png?v=1759994474"},{"product_id":"over-the-line-a-history-of-the-england-v-germany-football-rivalry","title":"Over the Line: A History of the England v Germany Football Rivalry","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eFrom Wembley to Penalty Shootouts\u003cbr\u003eInside the Anglo-German Football Feud\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eFew football rivalries are as storied or as emotionally charged as the one between England and Germany—a rivalry meticulously chronicled by Dr Alexander Gross in Over the Line: A History of the England v Germany Football Rivalry. From the legendary 1966 FIFA World Cup Final, where Geoff Hurst’s controversial shot off the crossbar led to England’s most famous victory, to the persistent shadow cast by Germany as England’s Angstgegner, Gross masterfully traces every twist and turn of this 90-year saga. His deep expertise as a historian and his passion for both football and cultural analysis shine through, making the book an essential read for anyone seeking insight into the socio-political significance of the beautiful game. \u003cbr\u003eGross’s exploration goes beyond the pitch, revealing how football matches between England and Germany have mirrored the broader political and cultural relationship between the two nations. The book dives into the psychological impact of repeated high-profile defeats suffered by England, while examining Germany’s appropriation of “football’s coming home”—turning Wembley into a symbol not just of English football, but of German triumph and resilience. Through compelling narrative and sharp analysis, Gross positions the rivalry as a reflection of national identity, post-war reconciliation, and the ongoing exchange of sporting philosophies. \u003cbr\u003eAs the founder and editor of EiF Magazine, Alexander Gross brings a unique perspective to football history. His research highlights pivotal encounters such as the infamous penalty shootouts, tactical evolutions, and the transformative roles played by managers and players on both sides. The book’s essential terms—Angstgegner, Wembley, crossbar goal, and footballing obsession—are woven seamlessly into a story that resonates with fans and scholars alike. Gross’s writing is both accessible and authoritative, making complex historical narratives engaging for all readers. \u003cbr\u003eOver the Line stands as a testament to Dr Gross’s talent for connecting the dots between sport, society, and culture. By blending original research, archival discoveries, and interviews with key figures, he uncovers the rivalry’s deeper meanings—how each match is a battleground for pride, memory, and collective identity. For anyone searching for a richly detailed, SEO-optimized account of the England vs Germany rivalry, this book is an indispensable resource that cements Alexander Gross’s reputation as one of the leading voices in football history.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 25, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £14.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 336 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836802884\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e198 x 129 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"unitOfMeasure\"\u003e(mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55860471431548,"sku":"1836802889","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/OVER-THE-LINE.png?v=1760291817"},{"product_id":"brazil-1970-how-the-greatest-team-of-all-time-won-the-world-cup","title":"Brazil 1970: How the Greatest Team of All Time Won the World Cup","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 220, 2);\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xxx-large;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 220, 2);\"\u003eRelive the Magic\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(25, 174, 71);\"\u003eInside the Greatest Football Team of All Time\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn \"Brazil 1970: How the Greatest Team of All Time Won the World Cup,\" acclaimed journalist Samindra Kunti unravels the electrifying saga of soccer’s most iconic squad. Kunti traces the rise of Brazil’s 1970 World Cup team, masterfully blending the drama of international football with deeper themes of national identity, politics, and the evolution of the beautiful game. The book explores how Brazil, under the shadow of a military dictatorship and a skeptical nation, transformed from the disappointment of 1966 to the dazzling artistry that defined the 1970 tournament. Kunti’s storytelling brings to life the vibrant atmosphere of the World Cup in Mexico, capturing the passion, pressure, and sheer brilliance of Brazil’s campaign. \u003cbr\u003eSamindra Kunti highlights the revolutionary tactics of Mario Zagallo, the only man to win the World Cup as both player and coach, and the genius of players like Pelé, Gerson, and Tostão. Their seamless teamwork and balletic skill made Brazil synonymous with soccer excellence, forever changing how the world viewed football. Kunti details how this squad, once doubted and discredited at home, mesmerized global audiences with an attacking style that combined flair, intelligence, and technical mastery—a brand of football that became legendary. \u003cbr\u003eThroughout the book, Kunti illuminates the tension between the old guard and the emerging technocrats who sought to bring science into soccer. He examines how Brazil’s golden era came to an end even as they lifted the trophy, marking the 1970 team as the last of its kind—free-spirited and untethered by rigid systems. The narrative delves into the players’ personal stories, the political backdrop, and the cultural shifts that shaped not just Brazilian football, but the worldwide perception of the sport. \u003cbr\u003eSamindra Kunti’s deep expertise and engaging prose make \"Brazil 1970\" essential reading for anyone passionate about soccer, World Cup history, or the broader intersections of sport and society. By weaving together rich detail, exclusive interviews, and sharp analysis, Kunti cements his reputation as a leading voice in football journalism. His book is a tribute to the artistry and legacy of a team that set the gold standard for the world’s game—a must-read for fans, historians, and anyone who loves the magic of the World Cup.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 25, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £12.99\u003cbr\u003eHardback: 272 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836802877\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 246 x 286 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55868846080380,"sku":"1836802870","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/BRAZIL-1970.COVER.png?v=1760516066"},{"product_id":"your-guide-to-the-2026-world-cup-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-players-and-teams","title":"Your Guide to the 2026 World Cup: Everything You Need to Know About the Players and Teams","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 192, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003e2026 World Cup Uncovered\u003cbr\u003ePlayers, Predictions \u0026amp; Historic Firsts\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eThe anticipation for the FIFA World Cup 2026 is at an all-time high, with soccer fans across the globe eager to witness this historic tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In Your Guide to the 2026 World Cup, bestselling author Shane Stay unpacks every vital aspect of the upcoming tournament, making it essential reading for anyone seeking comprehensive World Cup insights. The book expertly covers all 48 participating teams, exploring their unique soccer styles, formations, and strategic approaches that will shape the competition. \u003cbr\u003eCentral to Shane Stay's analysis are the star players and masterful coaches who will light up the World Cup stage. From established soccer legends to breakout young talents, the book provides in-depth player profiles, tactical breakdowns, and fresh predictions that soccer enthusiasts crave. Stay’s expertise shines in his game analysis, which not only highlights on-field brilliance but also explains what to watch for in every must-see match. This is your chance to learn backgrounds, motivations, and fun anecdotes behind the world’s top soccer nations. \u003cbr\u003eYour Guide to the 2026 World Cup doesn’t just list names or facts—it brings the electric spirit of the tournament to life. Stay paints a vibrant picture of the spectacular stadiums across North America, sharing stories from previous World Cups and offering a rare glimpse into the cultural impact of this globally celebrated event. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a newcomer to the sport, the book gives you the tools to fully appreciate formations, playing styles, and the drama that defines every World Cup clash. \u003cbr\u003eThis annual is perfect for anyone hoping to enrich their World Cup experience. By bridging soccer history with present-day predictions, Shane Stay closes the gap between casual viewers and hardcore fans. The 2026 World Cup promises to break records and reshape international soccer—make sure you’re ready for every goal, upset, and iconic moment with this authoritative guide by your side.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Publisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.meyer-meyer-sport.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eVisit Meyer and Meyer Sport UK \u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 21, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £14.95\u003cbr\u003eHardback: 336 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1782552963\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 246 x 286 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55905755627900,"sku":"1782552960","price":14.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Your-Guide-to-the-2026-World-Cup.png?v=1761738164"},{"product_id":"roberto-baggio-the-world-cup-years","title":"Roberto Baggio: The World Cup Years","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 100, 200);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eBaggio’s World Cup Magic\u003cbr\u003eRelive Football’s Greatest Drama\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eFor millions of football fans, Roberto Baggio is more than just a legendary player—he’s a symbol of artistry, resilience, and the emotional highs and lows that define the World Cup. From his dazzling solo runs in 1990, to the heartbreak of that penalty in 1994, and the quiet heroism of his final appearance in 1998, Baggio’s World Cup story goes far beyond results and scorelines. ‘Roberto Baggio: The World Cup Years’ captures the drama, tension, and humanity behind those unforgettable summers, tracing how a shy boy from Caldogno etched his name into footballing myth on the world’s biggest stage. \u003cbr\u003eThe book is a journey through an era when the World Cup still felt raw and unpredictable where a single touch could conjure magic or agony. Through vivid storytelling and fresh perspectives, readers relive the moments that turned Baggio into an icon: the stunning goals, the injuries carried in silence, the pressure of a nation’s hopes, and those fleeting, electrifying seconds that shaped his legacy. It’s a portrait not just of a player, but of a generation that grew up seeing possibility and heartbreak flicker in his eyes. \u003cbr\u003e‘Roberto Baggio: The World Cup Years’ is for anyone who’s ever been moved—sometimes to tears—by the beautiful game. Whether you followed Baggio’s career or are meeting his story for the first time, this book invites you onto the pitch alongside him: to experience the glory, the weight of expectation, and the universal truth that football, at its core, is about hope. Through the lens of Baggio’s odyssey, readers are reminded how sport can echo the best and hardest parts of life itself.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 18, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £14.99\u003cbr\u003eHardback: 244 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836802624\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e198 x 129 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"unitOfMeasure\"\u003e(mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55905794228604,"sku":"1836802625","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Roberto-Baggio-The-World-Cup-Years.png?v=1761467131"},{"product_id":"tears-for-england-obsession-hope-and-heartbreak-with-the-england-football-team","title":"Tears for England: Obsession, Hope and Heartbreak with the England Football Team","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eObsession, Heartbreak, and Hope\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eIdeal Reading Ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eIn \"Tears for England: Obsession, Hope and Heartbreak with the England Football Team,\" Robert Taylor delivers a riveting chronicle of the England national football side over the last half-century. With his unique perspective as both a seasoned journalist and a lifelong supporter, Taylor provides fans and readers with a beautifully detailed exploration of England's footballing highs and lows. His passion for the national team shines throughout, weaving together press insights, memorable moments like Maradona’s infamous ‘Hand of God’ and Gazza’s agonising miss at Euro 1996, and the unyielding optimism that grips the nation every tournament. Taylor’s writing captures the essence of English football, illustrating why the England team remains such an indelible part of national identity and culture. \u003cbr\u003eDrawing on his unparalleled experience writing for outlets such as the Telegraph, the Spectator and the Express, Robert Taylor crafts each chapter with remarkable clarity and wit. His storytelling—bookended by European Championships and World Cups—takes readers from the home internationals of the 1970s, through managerial eras, to the present day, highlighting unforgettable events: Keegan’s miss in 1982, the 2018 penalty shoot-out triumph, Harry Kane’s ballooned penalty against France in 2022, and Ollie Watkins's historic winner at Euro 2024. By interweaving personal anecdotes and expert football analysis, Taylor ensures that each themed chapter is both insightful and highly relatable for anyone who has cheered at Wembley or mourned England’s near-misses. \u003cbr\u003eThe narrative is enriched by Taylor’s broad experience as a broadcaster and international media trainer, whose global travels have afforded him a wealth of opinions about football’s significance. Notably, \"Tears for England\" doesn’t just centre on the men’s team: it also pays tribute to the Lionesses, the rise of academy football, and an entertaining league table of England managers. Taylor’s humour, critical eye, and deep affection for football unite these stories, offering something for every reader—no matter their age or perspective on the game. \u003cbr\u003eRobert Taylor's \"Tears for England\" stands out as a must-read for anyone invested in the fate of the national team or curious about the psychology of football fandom. Richly layered, frequently witty, and always engaging, this book is ideal reading ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Taylor’s voice is both authoritative and inviting, ensuring \"Tears for England\" will appeal to all who wonder why English football remains so heartbreakingly essential. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: April 6, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £12.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 272 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9781836804215\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 246 x 286 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED APRIL 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55921499767164,"sku":"35MAIL","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Tears-for-England.png?v=1761908060"},{"product_id":"usa-94-the-world-cup-that-changed-the-game","title":"USA 94: The World Cup that Changed the Game","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003eThe Summer Football Changed Forever\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xxx-large; color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e Relive USA 94\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eMatthew Evans’ *USA 94: The World Cup that Changed the Game* captures the pivotal moment when football, often called soccer in America, shifted its global axis. Evans traces how a handful of passionate volunteers mortgaged their futures to persuade FIFA to entrust the United States—a nation of sceptics—with the 1994 World Cup. As chronicled by Evans, the stakes were monumental: a country more enamoured with American football and baseball was to host the world’s most prestigious football tournament, with the world’s press circling, expecting failure. Yet, Evans expertly recounts how the tournament confounded critics. Stadiums overflowed, TV audiences peaked, and fans from Dallas to New York saw a glorious festival of international football—a testimony to Evans’ flair for conveying nostalgia and the unpredictable drama of the beautiful game. \u003cbr\u003eEvans’s account zeroes in on the thrilling and sometimes chaotic events that defined the tournament. From missed penalties that haunted legends to the famous car chase that distracted a watching nation, *USA 94* offers a front-row seat to history. The author’s meticulous research and passion for football history shine through, expertly blending match analysis with cultural context. Evans underscores how the 1994 World Cup became a proving ground for new heroes, unforgettable kits, and record-breaking crowds, placing the United States at the heart of football’s global evolution. \u003cbr\u003eBy examining the internal politics and sheer spectacle, Evans highlights how the summer of 1994 set the stage for football's blossoming popularity across America. He reveals the revolutionary impact broadcast coverage and marketing brilliance had in transforming “soccer” into a household word, opening doors for Major League Soccer and the growth of the women’s game. Evans vividly portrays the way USA 94 helped bridge continents and eras—linking Pele’s legacy to the rise of future stars, and Italia 90’s tentative promise to an unrestrained modern game. \u003cbr\u003e*USA 94: The World Cup that Changed the Game* by Matthew Evans stands as essential reading for supporters, players, and anyone fascinated by football’s history. Evans’s positive contributions as a football historian are unmistakable; his unique lens uncovers how football’s seismic shift began on American soil. The legacy of USA 94 lives on—in grassroots youth academies, elite women’s squads, and the crowded terraces of stadiums worldwide—thanks in no small part to Evans’s engaging, insightful storytelling.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 18, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £12.99\u003cbr\u003ePaperback: 256 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: 9781836802846\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 198 x 129 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55925699084668,"sku":"35MAIL","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/USA-94.png?v=1762024415"},{"product_id":"brazil-82-the-day-football-died","title":"Brazil 82: The Day Football Died","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(25, 174, 71);\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(25, 174, 71);\"\u003eThe Greatest Team Never to Win\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 220, 2);\"\u003eBrazil 1982 Revisited\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eFew teams in football history have captivated the world quite like the Brazil 1982 World Cup squad. In “Brazil 82: The Day Football Died”, author Stuart Horsfield masterfully recounts the journey of this legendary side, whose style of play—affectionately known as ‘futebol arte’—set new standards for creativity and flair on the international stage. Horsfield brings to life the thrilling exploits of Zico, Sócrates, Falcão, Éder, and Júnior, recreating the samba-laced spectacle that filled the stadiums of Spain and left millions spellbound. The team scored an impressive 15 goals in just five matches, consistently delivering moments of pure football artistry and memorable drama. \u003cbr\u003eStuart Horsfield’s insightful storytelling dives deeper than just the results; he explores how the Brazil 1982 team inspired a global love affair with attacking football. Through first-hand accounts and vibrant memories, Horsfield paints a vivid picture of a generation mesmerised by the men in yellow. His background as a senior writer for These Football Times and his contribution to several notable football magazines and podcasts underscores his expertise and passion for classic football narratives. In celebrating a side that fell just short of World Cup glory, he elevates their enduring legacy far beyond the trophy cabinet. \u003cbr\u003eThe turning point at the Sarrià Stadium, when Brazil faced Italy in what many call the greatest World Cup match ever played, is expertly dissected by Horsfield. The game’s heartbreak and its lasting influence are intricately woven throughout the book, revealing how this ‘glorious failure’ shifted the very philosophy of world football. Horsfield details how the 1982 Brazil squad’s expressive style forced teams and coaches worldwide to reconsider the balance between artistry and pragmatism, forever altering the sport’s tactical direction. \u003cbr\u003e“Brazil 82: The Day Football Died” stands as a celebration of the beauty, joy, and heartbreak that only football can provide. Stuart Horsfield, in his first book, offers an authoritative and moving tribute to the sport’s greatest team never to win the World Cup. Perfect for football fans, sports historians, and anyone fascinated by Brazilian culture, Horsfield’s work is a touchstone for understanding why the story of Brazil 1982 remains essential reading for anyone searching for the soul of football.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 18, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £12.99\u003cbr\u003eHardback: 256 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1836802839\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: \u003cspan\u003e198 x 129 \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"unitOfMeasure\"\u003e(mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55951736144252,"sku":"35MAIL","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/1982-Brazil1.png?v=1762590628"},{"product_id":"soccernomics-2026-world-cup-edition","title":"Soccernomics (2026 World Cup Edition)","description":"\u003ccenter\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 128, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-size: xx-large;\"\u003eDiscover Why Clubs Really Win and Lose \u003cbr\u003eUpdated for the 2026 World Cup\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/center\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"justify\"\u003eSimon Kuper and Stefan Szymanski’s Soccernomics stands as the definitive guide to understanding football through the lens of economics, data, and insightful analysis. The authors—Kuper, celebrated Financial Times columnist and William Hill Prize winner, and Szymanski, a respected Professor of Sport Management—deliver an engaging and highly readable exploration of the beautiful game’s greatest mysteries. Soccernomics dissects why football clubs routinely lose money, questions the perceived wisdom surrounding football management, and challenges followers to rethink what they know about football success and global dominance. \u003cbr\u003eIn this fresh edition, updated for the 2026 World Cup, Kuper and Szymanski dig deep into the shift of global football power and the growing impact of the MLS, Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami, and the evolving landscape of American soccer. The authors reveal the hidden forces that shape world football, using rigorous economic models, statistical insight, and a dose of irreverence to smash outdated clichés. Their evidence-based approach provides a unique angle, demonstrating why the sport’s biggest surprises—and failures—often come from off the pitch, rather than on it. \u003cbr\u003eWhat truly sets Soccernomics apart is Kuper and Szymanski’s knack for weaving stories, psychology, and business logic into one accessible narrative. They are lauded for their clear-headed, provocative style and their ability to illuminate complex subjects without alienating casual fans. Whether considering why England struggles at major tournaments or why clubs persist in making the same costly mistakes, the authors’ research-driven storytelling captivates readers and upends expectations. Kuper’s journalistic skill complements Szymanski’s academic rigour, offering a text as instructive for industry insiders as it is entertaining for supporters. \u003cbr\u003eThis new World Cup edition cements Soccernomics as essential reading for football fans, analysts, and curious minds alike. By examining the intersection of sport, society, and statistics, Kuper and Szymanski empower readers to look beyond the surface of the global game, appreciating the hidden economics and psychological drivers behind every kick. Soccernomics is not simply about football—it fundamentally changes how we see the world’s most popular sport. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e●\"Soccernomics\u003c\/strong\u003e [is] a sharply written and provocative examination of the world's game seen through the prism of economics and statistical data. It demolishes almost everything that most soccer fans believe about the game and how professional soccer teams should operate.\" – \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGlobe and Mail (Canada)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e ●\"Soccernomics \u003c\/strong\u003e. . . remains essential reading for anyone seeking an analytical take on the game.\" – Keeping Score \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e(TIME soccer blog)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e ●\"Soccernomics \u003c\/strong\u003eis the most intelligent book ever written about soccer.\" – \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eSan Francisco Chronicle\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e ●\"[Soccernomics]\u003c\/strong\u003e is a sporting tale in the Freakonomics mode of inquiry, using statistics to come up with fascinating conclusions.\" \u003cbr\u003e– \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIndependent (UK), Best Books of the Year\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e●\u003cstrong\u003e\"[Kuper and Szymanski]\u003c\/strong\u003e basically trash every cliché about football you ever held to be true. It's bravura stuff... the study of managers buying players and building a club is one you'll feel like photocopying and sending to your team's chairman.\" \u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMetro (UK) \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e ●\"[Kuper and Szymanski]\u003c\/strong\u003e do for soccer what Moneyball did for baseball--put the game under an analytical microscope using statistics, economics, psychology, and intuition to try to transform a dogmatic sport.\" – \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNew York Times\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e ●\"[Szymanski and Kuper] \u003c\/strong\u003eentertainingly demolish soccer shibboleths. . . . Well argued and clear-headed.\" – \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinancial Times, Best Books of the Year\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e ●\"Fascinating.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e – \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVanity Fair\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e●\"If you're a football fan, I'll save you some time: read this book ... compulsive reading ... thoroughly convincing.\" – \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eDaily Telegraph (UK)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e●\"Many explanations [of England's poor form] can be found in the book Soccernomics in a segment entitled 'Why England Loses.' (This is well worth a read for any English football fan; essentially, you overvalue your football heritage and undervalue the benefits of innovation.)\" \u003cbr\u003e– \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStephen J. Dubner, coauthor of Freakonomics\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e ●\"Oh, Rooney's the best. \u003c\/strong\u003e[My son] Ben thinks that England might be in the top four, but that's it. He knows the starting line up of every European team. We're reading this very interesting book about football together, you know Soccernomics.\"\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e– Lorrie Moore, author of A Gate at the Stairs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e ●\"Quite an entertaining read.\" \u003c\/strong\u003e–\u003cem\u003e Simply Futbol\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e●\"Since the publication of the first edition of Soccernomics there have been several attempts to copy its content. Yet few authors in the world of soccer writing can tell a human story like Simon Kuper, and even fewer academics can write an understandable narrative with numbers like Stefan Szymanski. Together the two men raise the bar again, bringing new insights to an already great body of work that is accessible and interesting to the quant and casual reader alike. . . . I highly recommend you pick it up for yourself, even if you have already read the first edition. You will not be disappointed.\"\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e – Forbes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e ●\"Szymanksi \u003c\/strong\u003ehas recently published the best introduction to sports economics... while Kuper is probably the smartest of the new generation of super-smart sportswriters... fascinating stories.\" – \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eObserver (UK)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e●\"The authors take what 'everybody' knows about success and failure in soccer and subject it to rigorous empirical analysis embedded in good stories that carry the narrative along. . . . Highly recommended.\"\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e – Choice\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e●\"Using data analysis, history and psychology, [Soccernomics] punctures dozens of clichés about what it takes to win, and who makes money in soccer--and in sports in general.\" – \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAssociated Press\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e●\"With Soccernomics, the FT's indispensable Simon Kuper and top-flight sports economist Stefan Szymanski bring scrupulous economic analysis and statistical rigour to a sport long dependent on hoary--and, it seems, unfounded--assumptions. . . . Gripping and essential.\"\u003cbr\u003e–\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Slate, Best Books of the Year\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e●\"Wonderful book.\" – \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePro Soccer Talk (NBC Sports blog)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(218, 32, 42);\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublisher: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.hachettebookgroup.com\/imprint\/bold-type-books\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cu\u003eGreat Book Selection – Visit BOLD TYPE BOOKS \u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePublished: May 5, 2026\u003cbr\u003ePrice: £16.99\u003cbr\u003eHardback: 496 pages\u003cbr\u003eISBN-13: \u003cspan\u003e978-1645030775\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 139 x 209 (mm)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"PUBLISHED MAY 2026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55951741092220,"sku":"45mail","price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/files\/Soccernomics.png?v=1762591512"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/2756\/collections\/England_1966_Print_bb9caac5-9a16-423b-af2b-560db133cf0d.png?v=1776432428","url":"https:\/\/www.soccerbooks.co.uk\/collections\/belgium-qualifies-for-fifa-world-cup-2026-finals.oembed","provider":"SOCCER BOOKS","version":"1.0","type":"link"}