{"product_id":"mammoth-book-of-the-world-cup-the-definitive-guide-1930-2018","title":"Mammoth Book of The World Cup: The Definitive Guide, 1930-2018","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eA comprehensive, chronological guide to the World Cup in football, covering every tournament from 1930 to the present, focusing on the on-field action rather than broader social or cultural aspects. The book includes features on major stars, great games, and lesser-known stories, as well as insightful essays and quirky stats. \u003c\/blockquote\u003e\u003cp\u003e                                                            \u003cstrong\u003eFormat\u003c\/strong\u003e: Paperback \/ softback\u003cbr\u003e                              \u003cstrong\u003eLength\u003c\/strong\u003e: 832 pages\u003cbr\u003e                              \u003cstrong\u003ePublication date\u003c\/strong\u003e: 03 May 2018\u003cbr\u003e                              \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher\u003c\/strong\u003e: Little, Brown Book Group\u003cbr\u003e                          \u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe FIFA World Cup, one of the world's most prestigious international events, is the subject of an all-encompassing, chronological guide that is sure to captivate football enthusiasts in time for the June 2018 kickoff in Russia. This comprehensive book spans from the tournament's inception in 1930 to the modern, all-singing, all-dancing spectacle that it has become today.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHolt's focus is primarily on the on-field action, rather than delving into the various ways in which football serves as a mirror for economic corruption, a reflection of a nation's style of play, or a means of uplifting underpaid and socially marginalized individuals out of poverty. Instead, he offers a captivating account of the World Cup, delving into the stories behind the facts and technical observations.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe book explores the enigmatic sins of omission, the critical injuries to key players, and the coaching U-turns that have shaped the tournament's history. It sheds light on England's impressive World Cup achievements under the guidance of Sven-Göran Eriksson, debunking the notion that they were a national disgrace. Additionally, the book examines why Brazil did not contribute in 1966, despite having won the previous two tournaments and going on to win the next one. It also explores why some of the greatest players of their day, such as George Best and Alfredo Di Stefano, never made it to the Finals.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe book also raises intriguing questions about the decisions made by players and coaches, such as why Johann Cruyff did not attend the 1978 World Cup, and why one of Germany's greatest players never played in the tournament. To accompany the accounts, the book includes numerous tables, some filled with obvious but necessary information, while others contain more quirky observations. These tables provide a visual representation of the tournament's evolution, highlighting key statistics and trends over the years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOverall, this book is a must-read for any football fan, offering a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the World Cup's rich history. Whether you are a seasoned veteran of the tournament or a newcomer seeking to learn more about its origins and significance, this guide will provide you with a deeper understanding of the world's most beloved sporting event.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e                            \u003cstrong\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e: 1000g                            \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimension\u003c\/strong\u003e: 156 x 235 x 61 (mm)                            \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13\u003c\/strong\u003e: 9781472141804                                                      \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nick Holt","offers":[{"title":"Paperback \/ softback","offer_id":44097559003386,"sku":"9781472141804","price":12.13,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0522\/4297\/2845\/products\/ca904088783721926bf04225d9d2502a.jpg?v=1630899963","url":"https:\/\/shulphink.com\/products\/mammoth-book-of-the-world-cup-the-definitive-guide-1930-2018","provider":"Shulph Ink","version":"1.0","type":"link"}