The Russian Pele: The Scandal of Eduard Streltsov | Part One

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper delve into the story of Eduard Streltsov, the 'Russian Pele'. In the first part of this two-part series, we trace Streltsov's meteoric rise from a poor upbringing to becoming a celebrated football talent. Witness his groundbreaking performances, his early brush with fame, and the personal flaws that began to unravel his career. Discover the events leading up to the fateful allegations that would ultimately tarnish his legacy. Join us as we unveil the complexities and the promises cut short in the life of one of Soviet football's most enigmatic figures. This episode contains discussion of sexual abuse and rape, which some listeners may find distressing. If you’ve been affected by any of the issues raised, the NHS provides a list of support services and resources here: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/help-after-rape-and-sexual-assault 00:00 Introduction 03:38 The Soviet Football Landscape in the 1950s 09:35 Streltsov's Early Life and Family Background 16:31 Streltsov's Football Career Takes Off 20:40 The 1956 Olympics and Missed Opportunities 25:17 The Medal That Never Was 27:01 The Downfall Begins 30:37 A Pattern of Trouble 49:50 Streltsov's Arrest 50:12 Confession and Public Outcry Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.